Takshashila Policy Brief - A Global Climate Change Relocation Insurance Framework

Executive Summary

India has the opportunity to take the lead in setting a new agenda for international climate change discussions. India should propose a ‘Global Climate Change Relocation Insurance’ framework (GCCRI) to tackle the adverse impacts of climate change catastrophes. This goes beyond the narrow confines of emission targeting and reduction, which has been the major preoccupation of international negotiations to date. The GCCRI framework is designed to address the challenge of sudden, large-scale waves of population displacement across national boundaries arising from a variety of climate change induced impacts.

The GCCRI framework enables vulnerable populations to avail a global relocation insurance. This allows them to be rehabilitated in another country, receive work permits, and support through the transition. Thus, people will be given a chance to rebuild their lives in the eventuality of a climate change induced disaster. In the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, India can lead developed and developing countries in providing legitimate means of relocation and rehabilitation of those affected by climate change crises. This can be done in a manner that promotes India’s national interest while offering an alternative international narrative on climate change negotiations.

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