Child Climate Migrants: A Child Rights Perspective in the Climate Crisis Nexus

Climate change poses several threats to child development, particularly migrant and displaced children. Climate change not only exacerbates existing inequalities but also creates long-term developmental challenges that span generations, demanding justice for children impacted by the climate crisis. Child climate migrants are among the most vulnerable and least researched groups impacted by the global climate crisis. As the impacts of climate change increase, millions of families are forced to migrate—both within their countries and across international borders.

Grounded in the theoretical frameworks of childhood development, intergenerational climate justice, and children’s rights, the paper underscores the urgency of developing child-centred approaches to climate-induced migration. In this theoretical paper, we seek to comprehensively explore the unique and multifaceted challenges experienced by child climate migrants. We delve into the psychological, social, and developmental effects of displacement, highlighting how childhood trauma, disrupted education, and the loss of community networks can hinder healthy development and long-term well-being. By critically analysing the challenges child migrants face in accessing fundamental rights such as education, healthcare, and protection from exploitation, we evaluate the gaps in current legal and policy frameworks (national and international) that either inadequately address or entirely overlook the specific needs of child climate migrants.

To this end, we argue for a fundamental shift in global climate policy, one that places child migrants at the centre of discussions on climate justice and future sustainability. Based on our findings, we call upon policy-makers to address both the immediate consequences and root causes of migration and displacement, such as more robust climate adaptation measures and child-sensitive migration policies. Such holistic approach is essential to ensuring that child climate migrants are protected and supported in ways that not only mitigate the damage caused by climate-induced displacement but also promote long-term resilience, dignity, and opportunity for the affected children.