The Social Reflections of Climate Change - Migration Relationship

English (OpenAlex)

Every year, as a result of disasters related to climate, atmospheric conditions, and seas, thousands of people are under the influence of what are called ‘anthropogenic hazards’ in the literature. These events, which are evaluated in the context of climate change, create radical transformations at both individual and social levels. In particular, environmental factors such as temperature increase, sea level rise, and drought cause forced displacement. Existing research shows that climate-based migrations mobilize larger masses compared to other causes of migration. Such migrations affect individuals and have various consequences on the social structure. Migration dynamics that develop due to climate change have profound effects on economic, social, and cultural structures and trigger social changes. The social and legal transformations that migrants face in the communities where they settle lead to structural changes that affect both migrants and host societies. In this context, a multidimensional assessment is critical for social cohesion, development, and global justice. This study aims to examine climate migration from a sociological perspective, together with its causes and consequences. In this study, the impact of climate change on these decisions in the period preceding migration decisions will be evaluated within the framework of the ‘climate change-migration relationship,’ and case studies from both Türkiye and the world will be included. The psychological, sociological, and economic consequences of the migration waves that have emerged, especially after the earthquakes that have occurred in our country in recent years, require a multidimensional approach. In addition, by focusing on the aftermath of migration, the legal status of individuals displaced due to climate change will be analyzed from a sociological perspective. n the final section, the impact of climate change on social structure through the phenomenon of migration will be analyzed. Addressing this issue, which remains topical, from various perspectives is expected to provide valuable contributions for future research in the field.