Climate change is one of the most important crises facing the world today. Rising sea levels and natural disasters are causing many island nations and local peoples to lose their land, cultural heritage, and way of life.
A reality has recently emerged, as local people are being forced to flee their ancient lands and traditions, fleeing a sinking island for their safety and livelihood. Listening to their stories, we realize that what they have lost is not just their land, but also their families, traditions, culture, and some invaluable parts of their lives.
Sea level rise: a major threat
Global climate change has led to an increase in sea level rise and natural disasters. The following island nations, where the land elevation is close to sea level, are most affected by this problem. Some island nations, such as the Maldives and Kiribati, are at high risk.
The indigenous peoples of these countries are in grave danger of being displaced from their ancient lands. For them, it is not just the loss of land, but also their Cultural heritage and quality of life have also come into question.
Endangered cultural heritage
These people are linked to their ancient way of life, which has developed in harmony with the environment, soil, water and nature. But when that way of life is threatened and natural disasters make life almost impossible, they are forced to leave. In this way, they lose their traditions, family history, and the connection they have developed with the land.
What should the world do?
Now is the time for the world to work together to solve this problem. We should:
- Taking strong action against climate change to reduce the extent of such insecurity.
- Developing a plan for the rehabilitation and cultural preservation of local people, so that they can lead a stable life in the new environment while maintaining their traditions.
- Supporting such communities by shaping international aid and climate change policies.
This change in the lives of the local people is a profound crisis and we need to extend our hands of compassion to them. It is time to stand by them and play a responsible role in achieving this great task.
