Environmental Refugee Actions

Question 1

What event in 2004 highlighted the vulnerability of the Maldives to sea-level rise?

Answer 1

The Indian Ocean tsunami of 2004.

Question 2

Why is the Maldives particularly vulnerable to climate change?

Answer 2

It is a small, low-lying island nation with a small land mass and low population, making it susceptible to natural disasters and sea-level rise.

Question 3

What action has the Maldivian government taken regarding future displacement?

Answer 3

It is looking into the possibility of buying land in other countries like Australia, India, or Sri Lanka for future relocation.

Question 4

How many people may be displaced in the Maldives due to climate change?

Answer 4

Potentially 400,000 people.

Question 5

What is the Pacific Access Category (PAC) in New Zealand?

Answer 5

A visa scheme allowing citizens from Kiribati, Tuvalu, Tonga, and Fiji to apply for permanent residence.

Question 6

How many people can migrate to New Zealand each year under the PAC?

Answer 6

Around 250 people from Tuvalu and Kiribati, and 75 each from Tonga and Fiji.

Question 7

How many people from Kiribati have already moved to New Zealand under the PAC?

Answer 7

Around 3,000 people.

Question 8

Why are the children in affected countries considered especially vulnerable?

Answer 8

Due to frequent coastal flooding, erosion, limited freshwater, and loss of crops caused by climate change.