Short Report: Climate Change, Vulnerability and Migration

The climate crisis is one of the greatest forces shaping our world – both present and future. None of us is immune to this fact; however, the reality is most acutely felt by those families already living precariously close to the edge, just one drought or flood away from the tipping point. In the face of an increasingly volatile environment and too few options, many are compelled to migrate in search of alternative livelihoods. In some cases, children join their parents, in others, they remain behind. And in the most desperate of circumstances, it is the children themselves who must set out to provide for their loved ones.

This report tells the stories of 92 children, young adults, parents and caregivers whose families have been disrupted and reshaped by migration. Collectively, they produce a confronting mosaic, coloured by systemic injustice, exploitation and deprivation, and contrasted by the profound love and commitment that ignites families to persist in the hope of a brighter future for their children.

We share in this hope. Since 1950, World Vision has remained steadfast in its commitment to upholding the rights of the most vulnerable children in Asia through our development, humanitarian and advocacy programs. Understanding and responding to the unique needs of children in the context of migration is increasingly critical to our ability to effectively serve the most vulnerable children in this highly dynamic, rapidly urbanizing region.
The success of our mission also relies on effective partnerships. 

Through this collaboration with the Stockholm Environment Institute, we have been able to present the consequences of the vulnerability–climate change–migration nexus for children, without losing the deeply moving, human elements in the analysis. As you read this report, we hope you will see each of the individuals behind the stories which have been so generously shared, and that you will be compelled to partner with us to take action.