Dr. Khaled Khalifa - Senior Advisor & Representative to High Commissioner, UNHCR

The discussion highlights the complex challenges humanity faces, emphasizing the need for both global and local solutions. Dr. Khaled Khalifa, a Senior Advisor to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, discusses the link between environmental degradation and displacement. He notes that climate change, conflict, and land degradation are significant drivers of displacement. The number of forcibly displaced people is unprecedented, with 123 million currently affected, and projections suggest this will exceed 130 million by 2025. Dr. Khalifa stresses the importance of addressing root causes, such as conflict and climate change, to prevent displacement. He argues that political solutions are necessary for political problems like those in Ukraine and Yemen. The discussion also touches on the need for innovative, tailored solutions to address specific community needs. Dr. Khalifa advocates for co-designed solutions and partnerships to achieve equity and equality. He hopes for a focus on tailored solutions post-COP16 to avoid leaving certain communities behind.