Factors of Vulnerability Forming Considerations For Informed Legal-Policy Formulation In Addressing Climate Change-Induced Internal Displacement: Case Study on Munroe Island

Abstract

Globally, the effects of climate change are felt increasingly than ever before with significant implications for human mobility. At one end, extreme climatic conditions raise displacement risks and migration, on the other, mobility constraints may prevent people from leaving, thereby trapping them in places exhibiting high levels of climatic stress. In situ adaptations are becoming difficult entailing risks for livelihoods and health of populations; and migration destinations are also becoming affected by adverse climate impacts. The vulnerability of the migrating populations further creates novel challenges to climate resilience and human security. This premise is evaluated in the paper by employing a case study involving Munroe Island in the State of Kerala in India. The paper is premised on the proposition that effective redressal of issues caused by climate change require legal-policy interfaces. Now, the issue revolves around identification of determinants which should form the basis of such interfaces. The case study undertaken reveals vulnerability as the primary criterion to be considered relevant in formulation of legal-policy interfaces. The study concludes that when different sections of a geographically homogenous community are subjected to climate change adversities, the ill-effects though expected to be similar across the board, vary owing to differing socio-economic vulnerabilities of the units of the study population. Since climate change effects remain constant, such adverse effects can be pacified through modifications directed towards socio-economic indicators through targeted interventions.