In a recent event titled “Re-Imagining Borders,” Ayelet Shachar, a law and global affairs professor at the University of Toronto and author of “The Shifting Border,” discussed the challenges posed by the climate crisis. She emphasized that no single country, not even the strongest globally, can address the impending issues alone.
Shachar highlighted predictions that the number of displaced persons and refugees worldwide could double by 2050, potentially reaching around 400 million individuals. Estimates in United Nations reports suggest a significant increase in migrants, ranging from 25 million to two billion, due to long-term climate changes.
The rise of anti-immigration policies in wealthy democracies has raised concerns about the future, potentially undermining values enshrined in the Geneva Convention. Former German Chancellery head, Peter Altmaier, stressed the importance of upholding Western values in the face of immigration challenges, urging countries to remain true to their principles.
Julian Castro, former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, echoed Altmaier’s sentiments, advising countries to treat incoming migrants with humanity, compassion, and reason. He emphasized the need for countries, including the United States, to collaborate earnestly with nations experiencing environmental hardships to improve living conditions and mitigate migration pressures.
Castro criticized the current U.S. administration for what he perceived as a lack of commitment to supporting neighboring countries and promoting regional stability. The discussion underscored the significance of maintaining core values and fostering cooperation to address the complex challenges posed by climate-induced migration.