Past Actions, Present Obligations, Future Justice: Reimagining Responsibility in Climate Migration Governance

This thesis proposes a novel conceptual framework for understanding and addressing the growing issue of climate-induced migration. Recognizing the urgent need for accountability and protection mechanisms, the research examines the evolving roles of states and non-state actors in this context. By employing a tripartite division of past, present, and future, the thesis offers a nuanced perspective on responsibility and a roadmap for action. Examining the “past” unveils the historical responsibility of states and how their actions have laid the groundwork for current obligations. The “present” highlights the dynamic nature of these roles, while also introducing multinational corporations as actors with increasing influence on climate change discourse. Looking towards the “future”, the thesis advocates for a deconstruction of the current system to develop a holistic ecosystem of players. This ecosystem should be grounded in shared responsibility, primarily among states and non-state actors, but also encompass additional elements. In addition, the research incorporates case studies of climate litigation before national and international courts. Such analysis of legal precedents provides concrete examples of how theories of responsibility translate into actionable claims and potential avenues for redress. Ultimately, this tripartite, interdisciplinary approach, relying on principles of human rights and climate justice, informs effective policy development and fosters forward-looking perspectives on building protection mechanisms for climate migrants and refugees.