Across the West African region, climate change is intensifying mobility dynamics. Rising temperatures, environmental degradation, and increasingly frequent extreme weather events are threatening livelihoods, particularly in agriculture-dependent communities, and are forcing people to leave their homes in search of safety and alternative livelihoods. In 2022 alone, over 7.5 million people were displaced in the region.

The Global Programme “Human Mobility in the Context of Climate Change” (HMCCC) supports the Commission and Member States of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and Member States in developing regional responses that are gender-responsive, conflict-sensitive, and climate-resilient. The Programme builds on frameworks such as the ECOWAS Regional Climate Strategy and works with actors across levels, from city networks and national early warning centers to regional climate institutions.

By strengthening regional cooperation, improving data systems, and promoting inclusive policymaking, the HMCCC II Programme supports a proactive and human-centred approach to mobility as adaptation. The goal: build resilience and ensure that no one is left behind.