Climate Migration Increasing Pressure on Borders in 2025

Background

Climate migration refers to the movement of people caused by the adverse effects of climate change—such as droughts, floods, and rising sea levels—that make certain regions uninhabitable. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), millions of people globally have been displaced in the past decade due to environmental factors. Economically vulnerable countries and those in conflict zones are among the hardest hit, pushing many to seek refuge across international borders.

What is happening now

In 2025, the number of climate migrants has surged to unprecedented levels. South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa are experiencing severe weather events, with floods in Bangladesh and prolonged droughts in the Sahel driving a significant portion of migration. European countries report an uptick in asylum applications linked to environmental causes. Border authorities across the EU, including Switzerland’s, are seeing rising entries attributed directly to climate disruptions. Policymakers are debating new regulations to better manage and protect climate migrants, but consensus on international legal definitions and procedures remains elusive.

Impact on Switzerland

Switzerland, due to its central location and relatively strong economy, has become both a transit and destination country for climate migrants moving through Europe. Swiss border agencies have noted increased crossings in recent months, with humanitarian organizations urging the government to revise asylum laws to accommodate climate-related displacement. Local communities and social services face rising demand for support, and discussions are underway about how to balance humanitarian obligations with Switzerland’s established migration policies.

What happens next

Climate migration is projected to rise further as extreme weather events become more frequent and intense due to climate change. Swiss authorities are participating in European-wide discussions to revise asylum and migration protocols, with an emphasis on shared responsibility and stronger humanitarian protections. International agencies continue to call for targeted climate adaptation measures and funding for communities most at risk of displacement. Switzerland’s response in coming years will likely set precedents for handling climate migration in similar developed countries.