7270. Forced Displacement in an Era of Environmental Change

Environmental change is reshaping human settlement patterns across the globe. Rising seas, extreme weather events, environmental degradation, and large-scale development projects are increasingly forcing communities to relocate, migrate, or adapt in place. This seminar examines the legal frameworks that govern displacement driven by environmental change and climate impacts. Drawing on international human rights law, refugee law, environmental law, and disaster governance, the course explores questions including: When does environmental change give rise to legal protection or relocation rights? How does international law address cross-border and internal displacement caused by climate impacts? What responsibilities do states, corporations, and international institutions bear toward affected communities? The seminar will also examine emerging debates on climate mobility, planned relocation, loss and damage, and the protection of indigenous and vulnerable communities. Through case studies spanning national contexts and scholarly analysis, students will evaluate the adequacy of existing legal frameworks and consider potential reforms to address gaps in law and policy at national, regional and international level. Suggested preparation: International Human Rights (LAW7878).