Refugees International to Push for Inclusion of Displaced People in Global Climate Talks at COP30

Refugees International will be on the ground at COP30 (Belém, Brazil | November 10 to 21, 2025), spotlighting the urgent intersection of climate change and forced displacement and highlighting the need to ensure that climate-displaced communities are represented in climate negotiations. 

As part of the Advisory Group on Climate Change and Human Mobility, Refugees International’s messages for negotiators at COP are available here.

Refugees International’s Senior Advocate and Program Manager of the Climate Displacement Program Jocelyn Perry and Alumni Fellows Ayoo Irene Hellen and Qiyamud Din Ikram will be in Belém as part of Refugees International’s COP30 delegation. 

“I am attending COP because those on the frontlines of climate change must have a seat at the table,” shared Ayoo Irene Hellen, a Refugees International alumni fellow and a South Sudanese refugee living in Uganda. “The world has a great deal to learn from displaced communities—we adapt every day, we bring skills, we innovate, and we offer solutions, not just stories of suffering. Global climate negotiations cannot succeed if they overlook the lived experience and leadership of refugees.” 

“I am attending COP30 to advocate for awareness of climate mobility and ensure refugees and displaced communities are at the center of climate decision-making,” said Qiyamud Din Ikram, a Refugees International alumni fellow and an Afghan refugee living in Germany. “Those forced to move by climate impacts deserve more than protection—they deserve a platform, a voice, and recognition as leaders. Centering refugee leadership is not only a matter of justice; it is essential for fair, practical, and transformative climate solutions that reflect realities on the ground.” 

“Climate change is exacerbating issues of displacement around the world, but those living in displacement are often the last to receive support to adapt to climate change’s impacts,” said Refugees International Senior Advocate and Program Manager of the Climate Displacement Program Jocelyn Perry. “Negotiators must act with the utmost urgency to prevent climate change from worsening and to support those who are already facing its effects, particularly refugee communities.” 

Refugees International calls on COP30 negotiators to include displaced communities in national adaptation plans, commit to protection frameworks for climate-displaced people, and ensure adequate financing reaches the communities most affected by climate change.

For interviews, contact Refugees International Media and Communications Manager Etant Dupain edupain@refugeesinternational.org