Human migration and climate change are two very frequently mentioned issues of our times. For the last few decades, low-laying small islands have been seen as being at the forefront of addressing climate change impacts. The low elevation of the islands makes them vulnerable to slow-onset hazards, such as coastal erosion, sea-level rise, salinity intrusion, and rainfalls. Consequently, migration has long been discussed as an adaptation strategy for the population. _x000D_
This presentation covers outcomes from the field longitudinal surveys conducted among locals in Maldives. It contributes empirical evidence toward understanding complex relations among environmental challenges, perception of climate change, and out-migration as possible adaptation. The presentation will answer the following questions: (I) How do the local population and experts perceive the climate change impacts?, (ii) What are the local adaptation strategies to climate change?, (iii) Is out-migration one of the possible adaptation strategy?, (iv) What is the role of other important factors, such as cultural, religious, economic and social in their migration decision?

Robert Stojanov
Mendel University

 
ID Abstract: 754