The changing climates, cultures and choices of Mongolian nomadic pastoralists

This policy brief provides an overview of the link between natural disasters, climate change and migration in Mongolia. It includes some of the conceptual challenges related to nomadic pastoralism and displacement, and the complexity of decision-making when it comes to migration. The policy brief then provides an analysis of the key policy challenges and a summary of relevant policies and programmes in place that contribute to addressing these challenges. 

The report highlights that decisions on whether or not to migrate following natural disasters depend on many factors including social vulnerabilities, perceptions of risk and access to opportunities. Despite the various programmes and policies, adaptation options in rural areas remain hindered by geographic isolation and limited economic development. Moreover, many migrants who move to urban areas still live below the national poverty line with limited access to basic services.

In order to address these challenges, a coordinated approach focusing on regional development, as well as proactive urban planning will be required. Based on the analysis above, the policy brief recommends the following targeted interventions:

• Conduct further research to enable evidence-based policies and planning;
• Support regional development and adaptation to climate change in places of origin;
• Plan proactively for future migration in places of destination.

Migration, Environment and Climate Change:​ Policy Brief Series, Issue 1, Vol. 3.