This issue of adaptation plays an increasing role in development, security and environmental cooperation as well as for migration policy. For this reason, the Austrian adaptation strategy also addresses the international aspects of climate change.

The achievement of the Millennium Goals and the associated national goals to eradicate poverty and promote sustainable development also appears to be threatened by the effects of climate change (OECD 2009). This is expected to result in an increase in environmental refugees. The number of environmental refugees estimated at 25 million for the year 1999 will rise to 150–200 million by 2050. Sea level rise alone is expected to cause ten million additional environmental refugees over the next ten years (EC 2007c). Yet, climate change is not the only factor contributing to migration; the trigger is often an already existing problematic situation (political, economic, religious, etc.). Such triggers can include inadequate infrastructure, general water shortage, poor medical care, etc.

Recommendation: Studies on the contextual origins of migration to Austria and Europe should be initiated, so that migration flows can be reduced or controlled.