The growing number of climate refugees is a grave concern, as climate change increasingly drives displacement both within national borders and across them. In Bangladesh, the impact is particularly stark. Climate-induced disasters such as cyclones, floods, and rising sea levels are pushing people—especially from coastal districts—to migrate to urban areas like Dhaka in search of safety and livelihood.
Bangladesh Post on Saturday ran a story titled “Coastline Climate Refugees Multiply” which underscores the scale of this crisis in the Cox’s Bazar district. Coastal regions are bearing the brunt of environmental degradation, leading to mass displacement. Scientists warn that if current global warming trends continue, nearly one-third of Bangladesh could be under water within a century, forcing around 30 million people to flee their homes.
Although climate change is a global issue, its consequences fall disproportionately on developing nations like Bangladesh, which lack sufficient resources, infrastructure, and technology to adapt. Coastal erosion, saline intrusion, frequent cyclones, and shifting weather patterns are severely affecting agriculture, fisheries, and river-based livelihoods. Studies show that about 1.6 men and 0.9 women per 100 people migrate to cities due to river erosion alone.
This urban migration is straining cities like Dhaka, already grappling with poverty, overpopulation, and inadequate infrastructure. Moreover, displaced people often lose their livelihoods and face difficulties in finding employment in unfamiliar urban settings. Each year, approximately 6,500 people are displaced due to climate-related impacts, further underscoring the urgency of the issue.
The government has initiated research projects to assess the socio-economic drivers of climate migration and formulate evidence-based action plans. These initiatives are crucial, but they must be followed by tangible steps, including effective rehabilitation and housing for displaced communities. While Bangladesh has adopted a Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan, implementation must be scaled up with urgency.
Each year, approximately 6,500
people are displaced due to
climate-related impacts,
further underscoring the
urgency of the issue.
In particular, attention must be paid to embankment infrastructure along the 5,757-kilometer coastline. Constructed mostly in the 1960s, many embankments have deteriorated and are now ineffective against high tides, cyclones, and flooding. Numerous cracks and breaches have been reported, leaving millions vulnerable to disaster. Heavy rain and tidal surges frequently wash away shrimp farms, crops, and homes.
A long-term solution is needed: the construction of sustainable, climate-resilient embankments with a height of at least 30 feet and a base width of 100 feet. These must be designed to withstand future climate shocks and prevent further displacement. Emergency funds should be allocated, and local governments empowered for ongoing maintenance and monitoring.
Additionally, salinity intrusion has created an acute water crisis in the coastal region. Cyclones and floods have pushed saltwater into freshwater sources, rendering ponds, canals, and even groundwater unusable. During the summer, water scarcity becomes unbearable, with both government and NGO-run facilities failing to meet demand. Urgent measures are needed to ensure access to safe drinking and cooking water.
Natural disasters such as cyclones Sidr, Aila, and Amphan have caused significant loss of life and property. These events have not only uprooted homes but also devastated livelihoods—destroying poultry farms, croplands, and fish ponds, and breaching protective dams. The cumulative toll of these disasters highlights the need for coordinated action.
An integrated approach involving government agencies, NGOs, and international partners is essential. Addressing the plight of climate refugees requires immediate action—not only to rehabilitate those already displaced, but also to prevent future displacement through resilience-building measures.
As one of the countries most affected by climate change—yet one of the least responsible for its causes—Bangladesh deserves global support. Climate migration is not just a local humanitarian issue; it is an emerging global security risk. We urge the government to act now, with urgency, compassion, and commitment.
