Protection of the Rights of Climate Refugees and Pathways to Redress

Abstract

Among the many issues brought about by climate change, the issue of climate refugee rights protection is one of the most important focal points. Nevertheless, climate refugees are not included in the definition under international refugee law whose legal status is unclear and whose rights protection faces many challenges. For example, the lack of international legal framework, the lack of clarity on the responsibilities of States, and the limitations of the current protection mechanism of United Nations High Commissioner for Refugee. Therefore, the protection of the rights of climate refugees should be based on existing international law. This should also combine with the protection of international human rights law, establishment of an international convention for the protection of climate refugees, relief fund for climate refugees, and improvement the judicial relief system for climate refugees. Meanwhile, China should also be proactive, actively promote relevant domestic and international legislation, strengthen relevant international special cooperation, and contribute to the protection of the rights of climate refugees.