On 22st of February 2024 European Migration Network (EMN) took part in the Climate Academy event, organized by the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung under the auspices of the President of the Slovak Republic, Zuzana Čaputová, in Bratislava, Slovakia. The representatives of International Organization for Migration (IOM) within the activities of the EMN in Slovakia presented the topic of climate change and how does it affect migration and migrants around the world.
Our team brought expert discussions during the Climate Academy and led a discussion about the nexus between climate change and migration. Our discussions not only emphasised the importance of unified vocabulary when it comes to environmental migrants, but also looked at the prevalent myths and realities of climate-related migration. Moreover, we explored potential solutions tailored to the needs of people on the move as a result of changing climate, as well as those who has to stay. Pascal Reyntjens, Chief of Mission at IOM Chad: Experience from Sahel region nTo deepen the understanding of the complex interplay between climate change and migration, participants connected with Pascal Reyntjens, Chief of Mission at IOM Chad. Drawing from his extensive experience in the Sahel region, Pascal shed light on the multifaceted relationship between climate change and human mobility directly from Chad, one of the most vulnerable country to climate change.n Virtual reality: IOM's Do the Right Thing campaign nFurthermore, thanks to the IOM's Do the Right Thing campaign, students had the opportunity to dive into the stories of people affected by climate change. Through the immersive medium of virtual reality, students could vividly experience the challenges and realities faced by communities dealing with the consequences of a changing climate. Other photos from Climate Academy. Photo © International Organization for Migration (IOM) 2024.