Forced migration happens when people are compelled to leave their homes due to external pressures. The main causes include:
- Conflict and Violence – War, civil unrest, ethnic persecution, and terrorism drive people from their homes. Examples include the Syrian Civil War and the Rohingya crisis in Myanmar.
- Persecution and Human Rights Violations – People flee due to discrimination based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or social group. This includes cases like religious persecution or political oppression.
- Natural Disasters and Climate Change – Earthquakes, hurricanes, droughts, floods, and rising sea levels displace millions. Climate change intensifies these issues, making some areas uninhabitable.
- Development Projects and Land Grabs – Large-scale infrastructure projects, deforestation, or industrial expansion can displace communities. Examples include dam projects and urban expansion.
- Economic Hardship and Extreme Poverty – Though not always classified as “forced” migration, economic desperation can push people to leave when survival is at risk due to job loss, food insecurity, or economic collapse.
- Environmental Degradation – Deforestation, desertification, and soil erosion make farming and living conditions impossible, forcing migration.