Side Event – Protecting People Displaced Across Borders in the Context of the Impact of Climate Change and Disasters

Protecting People Displaced Across Borders in the Context of the Impact of Climate Change and Disasters

Side Event at the 74th Session of the Executive Committee of the High Commissioner for Refugees
October 12th, 2023, 8:30-9:45
Palais des Nations, Room XXII

Background

The global climate crisis is generating cross border displacement in many parts of the world with humanitarian consequences. In some circumstances, those displaced in situations involving climate change may be entitled to international protection under existing international refugee or human rights law or may otherwise receive protection through different national laws or practices. In the lead up to COP28 and the Global Refugee Forum, this event aims to discuss, among others, the applicability of existing instruments to provide for international protection for those in need, as articulated in UNHCR’s legal considerations regarding claims for international protection made in the context of the adverse effects of climate change and disasters, as well as State practices in this area.

Speakers

• Ms. Elizabeth Tan, Director, Division of International Protection, United Nations Office for Refugees (UNHCR)
• Mr. Andrés Pérez Esquivel, Director of International Affairs, National Directorate of Migration, Ministry of Interior, Argentina
• Ms. Catherine-Lune Grayson, Head of Policy, International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)

Opening remarks by Ms. Gillian Triggs, Assistant High Commissioner for Protection, UNHCR

Moderation by Prof. Walter Kälin, Envoy of the Chair, Platform on Disaster Displacement (PDD)

Format

The side event will be held in person only. Interpretation for the event will be available in English and French.

Additional Information

Refreshments will be served outside of the room prior to the event

Organizers

UNHCR, PDD

Photo credit: © UNHCR (Pibor, South Sudan)

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Learn More about the 2023 Executive Committee Session