Research: Mainstreaming Environmental Dimensions into (Re)Integration Support to Reduce the Impacts of Climate Change on Migration in Lesotho and Mauritius

Elements of Innovation

• Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction
• Data, Research and Technology
• Social Cohesion and Community Participation

What is the project about?

Cognizant of the direct relationship between slow environmental degradation, natural disasters and displacement, this project entails a research initiative exploring this link. Spanning across Lesotho and Mauritius, the research aims to assist the governments in both countries to strengthen the effectiveness of integration, reintegration, and planned relocation strategies in response to the impacts of climate change.

Research-driven insights will guide policy development and adaptation processes within various government entities, particularly the Ministries of Environment, Economy, Labour, and Health. Through a focus on the design and modification of policies and programs related to integration, reintegration, and planned relocation, the initiative strives to establish a more sustainable framework to provide support to internal and international migrants, returnees, and vulnerable communities facing the consequences of environmental degradation and climate change.

How is the project innovative?

The project adopts a unique approach to addressing the complex interplay between migration, climate change, and environmental challenges. It does so by mainstreaming the environmental dimension into (re)integration support strategies and emphasizing the role of the environment and climate change in shaping migration patterns and reintegration outcomes.

Employing qualitative research methods, the project aims to provide clear answers to important questions, such as the integration-related needs of individuals and communities vis-à-vis current and predicted climate change impacts. The research findings will also inform future reintegration interventions, integration schemes, and provide synergies between migration, environment and protection programmes among others. The initiative also identifies “green projects” aimed at adapting to climate change and mitigating environmental degradation that can be piloted or scaled up.