AKIPRESS.COM - In the Kyrgyz Republic, the scale of climate migration is projected to increase by 2050, according to he World Bank's Groundswell: Acting on Internal Climate Migration report.

The total number of climate migrants is largest in the pessimistic reference scenario where by 2050, the Kyrgyz Republic could see up to 0.2 million climate migrants (3.9 percent of the population).

Concrete climate and development action are both needed to reduce the scale of internal climate migration. Lower global emissions pathways could lessen climate change impacts as a driver of internal migration by alleviating stressors related to sea-level rise, and changes in crop productivity and water availability. Understanding the scale and trajectory and differing vulnerabilities and attractiveness of hotspots can provide a stronger basis for proactive and inclusive planning in sending and receiving areas.

In the Kyrgyz Republic, climate change could increase rural-urban migration. It is important that urban planning be climate-informed and ensure inclusive access to adequate housing, job opportunities, infrastructure, connectivity, and services. Given projected changes in water availability, trade-offs in water resource management between major end uses will also need to be considered in conjunction with projected shifts in population distribution and economic activity in sending and receiving areas.

Tailored adaptation solutions for the agricultural sector will be needed to ensure the viability of rural livelihoods and should be considered in integrated spatial planning.

The Kyrgyz Republic is already taking steps to address the resilience of climate-sensitive sectors and economic diversification through the integration of climate priorities in national development strategies and processes. Action on these fronts will continue to be crucial as the country’s development trajectory continues to shift towards an industrial base and higher-value agricultural production.