Climate change is an increasingly pressing global challenge with far-reaching effects, especially in marginalised communities. Children in remote and arid regions are among the most vulnerable groups. They often bear the burden of survival without their parents, who would have been forced to migrate. In the process, these children’s welfare is often compromised. This chapter explores how climate change drives migration in Chivi District, Ward 32, putting children who remain behind at greater risk. The study employs qualitative methodology, using key informants and in-depth interviews with selected community members, local leaders, and children themselves. The inclusion of children in the study created a platform where they expressed their views on climate change-induced parental migration and their welfare. Data was analysed using a thematic approach, identifying key themes related to children’s experiences. The study has shown that climate-induced migration significantly affects the welfare of children left behind, exposing them to increased safety risks, emotional distress, and educational disruptions. The absence of adult supervision creates vulnerabilities that can lead to exploitation and abuse. This chapter advocates for community support programmes to provide specialised developmental assistance for children who are left behind, comprehensive mental health resources, and community-based protective measures for safeguarding children’s well-being and creating sustainable economic alternatives.

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Climate-Induced Migration and Its Effects on Children’s Welfare: A Case of Chivi District, Ward 32

  • Prosper Tonderai Mataruse,
  • Clement Chipenda

摘要

Climate change is an increasingly pressing global challenge with far-reaching effects, especially in marginalised communities. Children in remote and arid regions are among the most vulnerable groups. They often bear the burden of survival without their parents, who would have been forced to migrate. In the process, these children’s welfare is often compromised. This chapter explores how climate change drives migration in Chivi District, Ward 32, putting children who remain behind at greater risk. The study employs qualitative methodology, using key informants and in-depth interviews with selected community members, local leaders, and children themselves. The inclusion of children in the study created a platform where they expressed their views on climate change-induced parental migration and their welfare. Data was analysed using a thematic approach, identifying key themes related to children’s experiences. The study has shown that climate-induced migration significantly affects the welfare of children left behind, exposing them to increased safety risks, emotional distress, and educational disruptions. The absence of adult supervision creates vulnerabilities that can lead to exploitation and abuse. This chapter advocates for community support programmes to provide specialised developmental assistance for children who are left behind, comprehensive mental health resources, and community-based protective measures for safeguarding children’s well-being and creating sustainable economic alternatives.