Forced migration norms in the context of climate change: a case study of Somalia

Abstract

This project looks at inherent difficulties in the identification of forced migration due to climate change from broader migration patterns, particularly in conflict situations. This leads to a case study of Somalia, which provides an example of a protracted refugee situation heavily influenced by ongoing conflict and severe drought linked to climate change taking place simultaneously. International forced migration norms, which are evolving as these concepts and identification problems develop are considered. The question of the allocation of responsibility will be addressed, examining the (potential) role of international actors and specifically whether the international human rights regime can or should play a significant role. Theory which explains the development of norms will be turned to, in order to facilitate this part of the discussion, and the practices of actors will be evaluated against this theory. In particular the norms and practices of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) will be utilised.