While diasporas are among the first to respond when disasters strike in their country of heritage, they are seldom included in key climate discussions and policy frameworks. To shed light on this untapped potential, the D4C project has conducted a multi-country case study analysing the opportunities and challenges for diaspora engagement in climate action.   

On 8th May 2024, IOM UK organised the presentation of D4C case-study findings with the diasporas in the UK. The event provided an opportunity for diasporas to exchange learnings and provide feedback on the report, which will  be published later in the year.  

The report found that diasporas are already engaged in supporting climate action in their country of heritage with their principal motivators being familial ties and cultural affinities. However, diasporas’ contributions are limited by a lack of awareness of national climate change priorities and opportunities for involvement.

Addressing these challenges is critical to accelerate climate action and sustainable development by leveraging all diaspora capitals, including their expertise, ideas, networks and investments. You can read the D4C research brief here which summarises the key findings.