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IOM celebrates diaspora’s contribution to climate action with an exhibition in Westminster
The International Organization of Migration (IOM) in the UK hosted the exhibition “Diaspora for Climate Action” (D4C) at the Central Hall Westminster in the heart of London to highlight the important role diaspora communities play in addressing some of the biggest global challenges of our time, such as climate change.
Climate change continues to displace millions worldwide, reshaping human mobility in profound ways. Yet, migrants and diaspora communities are not only affected but are also key players in driving climate solutions. The UK is home to some of the largest diaspora communities worldwide and this exhibition wants to celebrate the contributions of these communities, more specifically the Bangladeshi, Ghanaian, Jamaican, and Moldovan diasporas, demonstrating their efforts in fostering climate resilience and adaptation in their countries of heritage and residence.
The event began with opening remarks by Olivia Blake MP, Member of the Environmental Audit Committee, Christa Rottensteiner, Chief of Mission at IOM UK and Gideon Commey, a D4C Diaspora Climate Champion.
Olivia Blake MP stressed the importance of integrating diaspora contributions into climate strategies, "These communities are bridges between nations and bring invaluable perspectives to climate action. Yet, we have not done enough to actively integrate their contributions into our strategies. I hope that we can change this and unlock the potential of these communities to drive impactful solutions.”
Here in the UK, we are fortunate to host one of the largest and most diverse diaspora communities in the world.
IOM’s initiatives like the D4C project show the incredible potential of diaspora communities to drive innovative, impactful solutions for some of the most pressing challenges of our time.
Christa Rottensteiner highlighted the critical role of diaspora communities in climate action. “Today, we are here to discuss the power of the diaspora. They are migrants and their descendants who still hold connections with their countries of heritage. This connection has been recognized in development and crisis settings but remains relatively underexplored in climate action.”
My work in Ghana has focused on climate education, youth engagement, and community action projects to build climate resilience and reduce poverty.
Gideon Commey shared his personal journey as a D4C Diaspora Climate Champion and his grassroot efforts in Ghana.
"One of our key initiatives is a 100-acre eco-village project in the Eastern Region of Ghana, which serves as a hub for training, research. By supporting food production and restoring nature, we aim to inspire innovative solutions for climate challenges."
As the event drew to a close, one message resonated deeply: the voices of diaspora communities must be heard. Their lived experience, expertise, and unwavering commitment are invaluable in shaping solutions that are inclusive and effective. By amplifying these voices, IOM’s Diaspora for Climate Action project, funded by IOM Development Fund, not only highlights their contributions but also inspires a collective call to action.
About IOM’s Diaspora for Climate Action (D4C) project
The UK is home to vibrant diaspora communities whose contributions to development and crisis response are well-documented. However, their potential in climate action remains underutilized. The D4C project addresses this gap by channelling the expertise, networks, and resources of diaspora communities into effective climate policies and initiatives, benefiting both their countries of origin and destination.
The Diaspora for Climate Action (D4C) project is funded by IOM Development Fund.
