Relocation and resettlement needs are not limited to low-lying island States. However, in the
case of such States, a considerable additional challenge is that displacement will necessarily
be external, with a corresponding increase in the complexity of the move as well as a
multiplication of stakeholders. This complexity makes early planning more compelling. As
outlined above, there are drawbacks to a premature and extensive focus on migration.
However, the existence of contingency arrangements could have an impact on migration
pressures by reducing uncertainty regarding the future.
In light of its mandate to engage in preventive actions related to statelessness, it is
recommended that UNHCR offer interested States its expertise and advice in devising
appropriate solutions and participate in consultations with affected and other interested
States, other United Nations organizations and interested partners. It is hoped that the present
paper will provide a useful contribution to ongoing discussions to prevent statelessness
resulting from the impact of climate change on low-lying island States.
24