Climate Migrants and Refugees: A New Reality
On this 107th World Day, the increased challenges presented by a looming climate crisis are also recognized. Global sources indicate that millions worldwide have already been displaced by the increased frequency and intensity of various environmental calamities, including droughts, catastrophic flooding and extreme heat. It’s estimated that a large-scale remapping of the world’s population is in our foreseeable future, as areas long-habitable now yield to a climate on the brink, becoming inhospitable to human life and livelihood. Often the most vulnerable and disadvantaged among us are affected first and most severely.
During this World Day of Migrants and Refugees, we are called to support, comfort, and welcome those among us who are displaced, recognizing that they are part of the single “we.” During this Season of Creation, we are called to advocate for our neighbors’ welfare as we would for our own; we are called to help stabilize the global climate, by modifying our own behaviors and consumption, and urging our leaders to take immediate steps to protect our common home.