Environment and climate change affect a wide range of people (including internal, inward and outward migrants) throughout the migration process by limiting their livelihood options and available natural resources. Livelihoods in Southern Africa particularly depend on natural resources, which are often under the threat of cyclones, prolonged droughts, floods or other disasters. Materialization of such threats can have drastic effects on socioeconomic development and lead to unsafe, unorderly and irregular migration. At the same time, the displacement of people, if not effectively managed, can have adverse impact on the environment.  

Mauritius is recognized as a country of origin, transit and destination for migrants who experience challenges resulting from climate change. For this reason, IOM has undertaken a study in Mauritius with the aim to support the mainstreaming of environmental dimensions in integration, reintegration and relocation initiatives.  

The research has assessed the impact of climate/environmental change and related disasters on migration, return and (re)integration in Mauritius. It has allowed a good understanding of climate change events, populations at risk, their environment, their background, the regions covered and the migration issues. At the same time, the study has enabled an understanding of the extent to which environmental and climate change dimensions are being considered in integration and reintegration of migrants.