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This briefing paper examines the socio-economic impacts of migration influenced by climate change in Bangladesh, discussing its role as both a development tool and an adaptation strategy while highlighting the need for protective policies for internal migrants.

This policy brief, published by the Climate and Development Knowledge Network in July 2013, examines the relationship between climate change and migration in Bangladesh. Based on research from the Sussex Centre for Migration Research and the Refugee and Migratory Movements Research Unit, the document argues that migration should be viewed as a proactive adaptation tool rather than a failure of local interventions or a social threat. It identifies significant gaps in existing national policies and provides recommendations to integrate migration into climate resilience strategies, protect migrant rights, and improve access to financial and vocational resources for climate-vulnerable populations.

This policy brief analyzes migration patterns in Bangladesh, finding that while permanent and some international migration are less sensitive to climate change, internal displacement and short-term internal migration are highly sensitive. It highlights the severe impact of disasters, such as cyclones and riverbank erosion in districts like Sirajganj and Munshiganj, and the critical role of international remittances (US$14.17 billion in 2012) in national development.

This policy brief analyzes the relationship between climate-related hazards—specifically inland flooding, storm surges, and riverbank erosion—and long-term migration patterns in Bangladesh. Using historical census data and World Bank projections, the authors estimate that an additional 9.6 million people are likely to migrate from affected upazilas (sub-districts) between 2011 and 2050. The document advocates for government interventions in employment skills training and urban planning to support migrants and reduce disaster risks in cities.

This fact sheet describes the activities of the Climate and Development Knowledge Network (CDKN) in Bangladesh, focusing on technical assistance for climate-compatible development, research on climate-induced displacement, and leadership in the global 'loss and damage' agenda.