The phenomenon of climate-induced migration has gained attention in Bangladesh as a result of two factors: two dramatic cyclones hit the country in 2007 and 2009 and led to the displacement of thousands of people, and the slow recognition of migratory consequences of climate change in UNFCCC negotiations. Yet, an empirical analysis reveals gaps between discourses overemphasizing the consequences of global warming on human mobility and local realities.
This paper first aims to reveal the discourse dynamics at the national and international levels. Then, it explores how the government of Bangladesh implements political and discursive strategies to transform its climate and demographic vulnerability into a diplomatic tool to exert pressure on the polluted states and justify its migration policy. It will conclude on the potential perverse effects of this strategy that can also shift the responsibility of the State towards its citizens to the international community hiding internal governance problems.