The United Nations has issued a stark warning that millions of refugees are caught in a worsening cycle of conflict and climate disasters, with nearly half of global displacement hotspots projected to face extreme climate risks by 2040. A new UNHCR report reveals 117 million people were displaced by war and persecution by mid-2025, 75% of whom reside in regions already grappling with severe climate hazards.
UN Refugee Chief Filippo Grandi emphasized the compounding challenges: 'Extreme weather destroys homes and livelihoods, forcing families – many already displaced by violence – to flee again. These communities face droughts, floods, and heatwaves with minimal resources to recover.'
The analysis projects alarming trends:
65 countries hosting 45% of conflict-displaced populations will face extreme climate exposure by 2040
15 refugee camps across Africa's Sahel region could endure 200 days of lethal heat stress annually by 2050
Weather-related disasters caused 250 million internal displacements in the past decade
Funding shortfalls compound the crisis. Major donor countries, including the U.S., have reduced contributions despite growing needs. 'Climate financing must reach frontline communities to prevent further displacement,' Grandi urged, calling for concrete commitments at November's COP30 summit.
The report highlights opportunities in ecological restoration, suggesting sustainable investments in refugee-hosting areas could boost climate resilience while creating jobs. As global leaders prepare for climate negotiations, advocates stress that protecting vulnerable populations requires addressing both conflict resolution and climate adaptation simultaneously.
