Climate Change Is Key Part of Understanding Migration, GAO Tells Trump

"U.S. diplomats used to receive guidance about climate change and migration. The Government Accountability Office is recommending the State Department bring it back."

"As the movement of refugees strains countries worldwide and becomes fuel for political clashes in the United States, the Trump administration has eliminated guidelines that the government once gave to American diplomats about how to plan for the impact of climate change on migration and global security.

In a report released Thursday, the Government Accountability Office recommended the State Department restore the guidelines so U.S. diplomats are prepared for major population shifts that could destabilize a country or region.

'Without clear guidance, State may miss opportunities to identify and address issues related to climate change as a potential driver of migration,' the report said."

Neela Banerjee reports for InsideClimate News January 19, 2019.

Source: InsideClimate News, 01/21/2019