Abstract

The groups most affected by environmental degradation induced by climate change have a vulnerable status and lack resources to migrate. Beyond lacking the resources to migrate out of degraded and/or adverse environments, there are significant socioeconomic political barriers in regards to obtaining emigration credentials. The objective of this article is to appraise the different aspects of climate change refugees, such as troublesome issues associated with population estimates, definitions, and the social and legal obstacles of achieving internationally recognized refugee, migrant, stateless, or exile status. Presently, it is essential to develop international and sustainable policies to ensure effective protection and assistance for vulnerable persons who are currently displaced or will need to migrate due to adverse environmental changes.