Climate-related urban migration: scope and gaps in the academic literature

Climate-related urban migration is emerging as one of the most pressing global challenges of our time, yet its drivers, patterns and consequences remain unevenly documented. In this study we present a PRISMA-guided systematic review of peer-reviewed research on climate-related migration into urban areas, complemented by key data from leading international organisations engaged in migration studies. Our review reveals that most climate-related migration is internal (i.e. within national borders rather than across them) and that it often results in precarious living conditions and predominantly informal livelihoods in urban destinations. Floods, droughts and changes in precipitation emerge as the most frequently analysed climate hazards. The type of hazard studied tends to reflect regional exposure patterns. Geographically, there is a clear imbalance between the regions that are the focus of academic research and those identified as critical by international organisations. While Asia – particularly Bangladesh – dominates the research landscape, other countries that are highly exposed to climate hazards – such as Ethiopia, Indonesia, Myanmar, Pakistan and the Philippines – remain underrepresented. Similarly, Europe and countries elsewhere in the Global North receive limited scholarly attention, despite facing increasingly frequent climate impacts. Our analysis also highlights persistent gaps in understanding gender dynamics and post-migration vulnerabilities. A more nuanced exploration of migrants’ profiles and the urban characteristics shaping their livelihoods is essential to inform socially responsive urban-planning and climate-adaptation policies. Without more comprehensive, balanced and context-sensitive research, policy responses risk overlooking vulnerable populations as climate-induced migration continues to reshape the trajectory of global urbanisation.