Seventeenth International Conference on Climate Change: Impacts & Responses

Abstract

Mobility has traditionally been a key factor in survival, driven by factors ranging from economic opportunities to environmental pressures. In recent years, the intersection of climate change and migration has garnered significant attention, particularly in vulnerable regions like Africa. This paper examines in detail the relationship between climate change and migration in four African countries: Kenya, Central African Republic, Sudan, and Somalia. Through a comprehensive analysis of panel data spanning from 1990 to 2022, we explore the impact of environmental factors on migration patterns, employing robust econometric techniques to discern the intricate dynamics at play. Contrary to widespread expectations, our findings reveal that direct effects of climate change on migration trends in these countries are not statistically significant. Instead, socio-economic variables such as GDP, mortality rates, rural population dynamics, and agricultural land utilization emerge as primary drivers of migration patterns. Our study highlights the need for a comprehensive understanding of migration that recognizes the multidimensional nature of the drivers beyond the environment. By using rigorous applied research, we contribute to a greater understanding of climate-induced migration and advocate for comprehensive approaches that integrate social, economic, and environmental considerations in climate change and addressing the complex challenges of migration.