The drivers of climate-induced migration and climate immobility among rural and peri-urban residents in northern and Upper East Ghana are investigated in this paper, where climate stressors such as flooding, extreme heat, windstorms, and drought create both voluntary and involuntary mobility, as well as situations of being “trapped”, despite a desire to move.
Using an embedded concurrent mixed-methods design, the study surveyed 2,125 participants and conducted 21 interviews across 12 communities in the Talensi and Savelugu districts. Multilevel regression analysis and comparative thematic analysis were used to identify the socio-demographic and experiential factors associated with climate migration and immobility.
Results showed that 21.7% of respondents had experienced climate-induced migration, while nearly half (49.9%) were climate immobile, reporting no intention to relocate despite climate stress. Older age groups and lower income were associated with higher likelihood of climate immobility. In contrast, individuals who perceived their health as worsening were significantly more likely to migrate.
Qualitative findings highlighted recurring displacement, with some communities experiencing floods up to 14 times per year due to Bagre Dam spillages.
The authors conclude that national and local governments must strengthen the adaptive capacities of climate-vulnerable populations to better address both mobility and immobility under climate stress.
Learn more about this study here: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmh.2025.100364
Reference
Appiah, S. C. Y. (2025). Climate-induced migration and climate immobility in Ghana: A socio-ecological mixed method study. Journal of Migration and Health, 12, 100364