By Faridat Salifu
The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and Microsoft have joined forces to tackle the growing crisis of climate-induced displacement through the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven strategies.
The partnership, announced on Monday, December 16, 2024, is centred on mitigating the effects of climate change on migration and fortifying the resilience of at-risk communities.
Initial pilot projects under the collaboration are underway in the Maldives, Ethiopia, and Libya, leveraging Microsoft’s AI for Good Lab to deliver tailored solutions.
According to IOM, the escalating impact of climate change has become a significant driver of displacement.
In 2023 alone, 26.4 million internal displacements were recorded globally, underlining the urgent need for proactive measures.
Amy Pope, Director-General of IOM, stressed the importance of moving beyond reactive approaches.
“This collaboration with Microsoft empowers IOM with the data and insights needed to address the impacts of climate change on migration more effectively, ensuring better protection for vulnerable communities,” she said
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The partnership combines advanced AI technologies with local expertise to analyse climate risks and develop actionable strategies.
Dr Juan Ferres, Chief Data Scientist at Microsoft’s AI for Good Lab, highlighted the role of AI in addressing these challenges.
“Our work with IOM demonstrates how AI can provide critical insights to anticipate risks, enabling local teams to implement solutions that improve community resilience,” he said.
In Ethiopia, for instance, AI-driven analysis revealed that 700,000 people and 1.5 percent of the country’s croplands are at high risk of flooding.
This data is being used to inform targeted interventions, reducing the risk of displacement and enhancing the support available to affected populations.
The collaboration will also culminate in the launch of a Climate Action Portal, which will provide policymakers and humanitarian organisations with interactive maps and dynamic visualisations.
These tools will help identify vulnerable populations, forecast displacement hotspots, and equip stakeholders with the information necessary to mitigate risks.
IOM noted that the project sets a new standard in leveraging technology to tackle climate-related migration issues. By combining cutting-edge AI tools with ground-level expertise, the initiative aims to create sustainable solutions that protect vulnerable communities while addressing the root causes of climate-driven displacement. END
Source : IOM-UNmigration
