This briefing presents the findings and recommendations of a global workshop of over 30 experts in health research, practice and policy from fifteen countries, which was convened by the UK Academy of Medical Sciences and the Internal Displacement Research Programme in February 2021. For further detail, see the workshop outcome report and the background discussion paper for the meeting.
IDPs experience worse morbidity and mortality than other conflict-affected populations Conflict-affected IDPs have significantly worse morbidity and mortality then other populations in, and from, conflict-affected countries. This pattern exists across a range of health areas, including communicable/vectorborne diseases and mental health disorders. This adverse impact of internal displacement on health can be long-lasting, inter-generational and differentiated by gender and age.
By Sanjula Weerasinghe | Nov 5, 2026
On the eve of COP 31, this thoughtful, reflective short article relays a simple but vital message from the recent Pacific Pre-COP meeting: the need to listen to Pacific voices. Policymakers, experts and advocates seeking to shape effective approaches to climate-related mobility can learn from Pacific leadership, knowledge and innovation. As observed at Pacific Pre-COP, Pacific approaches to climate-related mobility are deeply interwoven with the goals of keeping 1.5°C within reach, accessing predictable climate finance and elevating ocean-based climate action and sustainable ocean management. They also prioritise peoples’ ability to remain safely in their homes, acknowledge the need for well-supported alternatives, including rights-based relocation and migration with dignity, and recognise that such mobility pathways often entail profound loss, which must be addressed.
Ultimately, learning from Pacific experiences benefits the entire world. As noted by Palau’s President, “What reaches our shores today, will also reach your shores…”. As COP 31 begins, negotiators and advocates should listen.