Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s (HBKU) College of Public Policy (CPP) recently staged a roundtable to consider the impact of climate change on migration into Qatar.
Co-organised with the International Organisation for Migration Qatar (IOM Qatar), the event on Climate Change and Migration in Qatar was accompanied by key insights concerning efforts to mitigate the most pernicious effects of increasingly unpredictable climatic conditions. Participants also reflected on Qatar’s priorities and participation at COP28 in the UAE.
The event commenced with opening remarks by Iman Ereiqat, chief of mission, IOM Qatar, and Dr Leslie A Pal, founding dean, CPP.
This was followed by a panel including Ovais Sarmad, board member, Global Carbon Council and former deputy executive secretary, UNFCCC; Carol Chouchani Cherfane, cluster leader, Climate Change and Natural Resources Sustainability Cluster, UNESCWA, Ministry of Environment, which considered the impact of climate change on migration to the wider Arab region.
Dr Pal said: “Migration remains an essential and welcome feature of Qatar’s social and economic development. However, there can be no denying that climate change is having a profound impact on migrants already here, as well as influencing the type of migrant interested in job opportunities within the country. Looking ahead, Qatar needs a public policy landscape that’s capable of navigating all challenges posed by climate change and migration.”
CPP roundtable on climate change.
