Amina Yesmin and Supravat Halder
Abstract: Climate change-induced displacement is a growing crisis in Bangladesh, disproportionately impacting vulnerable populations and contributing to an increase in crime. This study examines the socio-legal aspects of climate displacement, focusing on its role in promoting economic deprivation, social instability, and unlawful activities. The research examines various environmental factors such as floods, cyclones, river erosion, and sea-level rise, which force people to migrate, often leading to tensions over resources, exploitation by criminal networks, and increased incidences of violence in both urban and rural settings. This paper analyses the correlation between climate displacement and crime, examining how the lack of resources, loss of livelihood, and legal loopholes contribute to the rise of criminal behavior among displaced individuals. While Bangladesh has implemented several laws, policies and strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change, they fail to specifically address the legal rights and protection of climate-displaced persons. Through an analytical review of primary and secondary legal sources, this paper underscores the necessity for robust legal reforms, proactive policy measures, and enhanced social security systems to mitigate the adverse consequences of climate displacement and curb the rising trend of crime associated with it. Addressing climate displacement as both a humanitarian and security concern is essential for sustainable development and crime prevention in Bangladesh.
Keywords: Climate displacement, environmental factors, crime, laws, climate-
displaced persons
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