Rising Internal Displacement in Africa

In recent years, Africa has seen a dramatic rise in internal displacement. A report from the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre reveals that the number of internally displaced people (IDPs) due to conflict and disasters has surged. As of 2023, Africa is home to approximately 35 million IDPs. This figure reflects a threefold increase since 2009. The report marks the pressing need for effective policies and frameworks to address this crisis.

Conflict-Induced Displacement

Conflict remains a major driver of displacement in Africa. The number of people displaced by violence increased from 10.2 million in 2009 to 32.5 million in 2023. This increase is linked to ongoing conflicts in various regions. Governments face challenges in providing adequate responses. The situation is exacerbated by competition over scarce resources.

Disaster-Induced Displacement

Disaster-related displacements have risen sharply. The number of people fleeing disasters jumped from 1.1 million in 2009 to 6.3 million in 2023. Floods are responsible for over 75% of these displacements. Droughts also contribute . Seasonal patterns show that most displacements occur during the rainy seasons.

Impact of Climate Change

Climate change is intensifying weather-related hazards. Floods and droughts are becoming more frequent and severe. This trend amplifies vulnerabilities in communities. The IDMC acknowledges that these changes lead to increased displacement. Cyclones Idai and Freddy are notable examples of disaster-related displacements.

Regional Responses and Policies

In 2009, the African Union adopted the Kampala Convention. This was the first legally binding regional instrument addressing all causes of displacement. As of 2023, 34 countries have ratified this treaty. While many nations have developed frameworks to address displacement, the rising numbers indicate that more action is needed.

Long-Term Planning and Investment

Addressing internal displacement requires long-term strategies. Short-term relief is insufficient. Sustainable investments are crucial for rebuilding lives. The Intergovernmental Authority on Development’s Regional Climate Change Strategy is vital for encouraging cooperation. Integrating displacement issues into national frameworks is essential for comprehensive solutions.

Urgent Need for Action

The report stresses the urgency of implementing effective policies. Governments must commit to addressing the underlying causes of displacement. This includes peacebuilding, climate action, and sustainable development. A multi-sectoral approach is necessary to tackle these challenges holistically.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the role of climate change in exacerbating internal displacement in Africa.
2. Estimate the impact of the Kampala Convention on internal displacement policies in African nations.
3. What are the primary causes of conflicts in Africa? Point out their relationship with resource scarcity.
4. With suitable examples, explain how seasonal weather patterns contribute to disaster-induced displacement in Africa.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the role of climate change in exacerbating internal displacement in Africa.

1. Climate change increases the frequency and severity of weather-related disasters, such as floods and droughts.
2. These disasters lead to internal displacement, with millions forced to flee their homes annually.
3. Communities become more vulnerable due to deteriorating environmental conditions and resource scarcity.
4. Examples include Cyclones Idai and Freddy, which caused massive displacements in Southern Africa.
5. Climate change amplifies existing socio-economic challenges, worsening the displacement crisis.

2. Estimate the impact of the Kampala Convention on internal displacement policies in African nations.

1. The Kampala Convention is the first legally binding regional framework addressing all phases of displacement.
2. As of 2023, 34 countries have ratified the convention, demonstrating regional commitment to tackle displacement.
3. It has prompted many nations to develop legal and policy frameworks to manage internal displacement effectively.
4. Despite progress, rising displacement numbers indicate that implementation and enforcement remain challenging.
5. The convention sets international standards for displacement management, influencing national policies across Africa.

3. What are the primary causes of conflicts in Africa? Point out their relationship with resource scarcity.

1. Primary causes of conflicts include ethnic tensions, political instability, and competition over resources.
2. Resource scarcity, particularly water and arable land, intensifies competition and leads to violent confrontations.
3. Climate change exacerbates resource scarcity, increasing the likelihood of conflicts over dwindling supplies.
4. Displacement from conflicts often leads to further resource depletion, creating a vicious cycle of violence.
5. Examples include conflicts in regions like the Sahel, where competition over resources has escalated tensions.

4. With suitable examples, explain how seasonal weather patterns contribute to disaster-induced displacement in Africa.

1. Seasonal weather patterns, particularly rainy seasons, trigger flooding events across Africa.
2. In Eastern Africa, 69% of disaster-related displacements are due to floods during the Gu and Deyr seasons.
3. Western Africa sees 99% of disaster displacements from floods occurring between June and September.
4. Recurring droughts during dry seasons lead to food insecurity, forcing populations to migrate in search of resources.
5. These seasonal displacements highlight the need for effective preparedness and response strategies during critical weather periods.