Geneva/Brussels, (Unib Rashid) – Seminar on “Climate Migration Rights” Highlights Impacts of Climate Change and Militarisation in Indian-Occupied Kashmir on Sidelines of 62nd UN Human Rights Council Session

The Kashmir Institute of International Relations (KIIR), in collaboration with International Action for Sustainable Development, organised a seminar titled “Climate Migration Rights” on the margins of the 62nd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva. The event brought together civil society representatives, climate experts, and migration rights activists to examine the intersection of climate change, forced migration, and human rights.

Discussions focused on the broad impacts of climate change on migration patterns and the protection of migrants’ rights. Participants also addressed the specific effects of militarisation-induced climate disruption and environmental degradation in Indian-occupied Kashmir, including how prolonged military presence contributes to deforestation, water stress, and ecosystem damage that displaces local communities.

Geneva Seminar Calls for International Recognition of Climate Migrants from Indian-Occupied Kashmir. pic.twitter.com/btfkHGOr3s

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A key session examined the environmental and social consequences of militarised pilgrimage in the region, noting increased pressure on local resources, waste generation, and restrictions on traditional livelihoods. Speakers emphasised that these factors compound existing vulnerabilities and accelerate climate-driven migration from Kashmir.

“Climate change is not just an environmental crisis—it is a human rights crisis that disproportionately affects communities already living under occupation and militarisation,” said a representative of the Kashmir Institute of International Relations. “The rights of climate migrants from Indian-occupied Kashmir must be recognised and protected at the international level.”

The seminar concluded with calls for greater accountability, sustainable environmental policies in conflict-affected areas, and inclusion of Kashmir-specific climate migration concerns in global human rights mechanisms.

The seminar was moderated by Ms. Naila Altaf Kayani Phd scholar NuML and speakers include, Dr. Waleed Rasool executive Director IDDS, Dr Raja muhammad Sajjad Khan Director KPRI Mr. Talha Tufial Bhatti, environmentist and senior researcher at IRS. Dr Saira Farooq Shah associate professor at MUST and Ms. Mehru nisa rehman Director research KIIR.

About the OrganisersThe Kashmir Institute of International Relations works to promote dialogue on human rights, peace, and sustainable development in the Kashmir region. International Action for Sustainable Development focuses on advancing climate justice and sustainable development goals through international advocacy.

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