A Critique of the Definitions of Climate and Environmental Migration
Toward a Political Ecology of Migration
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1590/1980-858525038800032202Keywords:
socioecological transformation, primitive accumulation, world-ecology, epistemological critique , Abdelmalek SayadAbstract
This article analyses the so-called environmental and climate migration, uncovering inherent complexities and contradictions within their official definitions. The analysis delves into the historical roots, tracing the origins of environmental migration discussions since the 1980s. Methodologically, the study scrutinizes international agencies' definitions, advocating for a political ecology framework inspired by Sayad's sociology of migrations. It challenges prevailing concepts like "environmental refugees" and "climate refugees," highlighting the controversial nature of these terms. The article emphasizes the need to shift from an emergency-oriented approach to a political ecology perspective, exploring human mobility within socio-ecological contexts. It critiques the prevalent focus on climate-induced displacement, arguing for a comprehensive understanding rooted in political and historical dimensions. By transcending epistemological reductions, the study contributes to ongoing debates on current migration, urging a more nuanced and inclusive approach to address the intricate challenges posed by environmental changes and human mobility.
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