The Role of Climate Change in Driving Mobility: A Perspective of Rural Residents

Climate change has been recognized as a significant driver of human mobility. Although its effects on migration have been studied, analyzing these impacts in vulnerable rural and inner areas, particularly in Europe, presents challenges. This paper investigates the impact of climate change on personal migration choices. It analyses how local households in inner Europe perceive mobility driven by climate change, considering their experiences and vulnerabilities. In a case study of “Lioni,” a small municipality in southern Italy, and through 21 interviews, the findings reveal a high level of awareness regarding climate change among residents. They recognize the climatic impacts on their lives; however, they do not yet consider it a “valid” reason for migration. On the other hand, they believe that, without effective adaptation policies, climate change will lead to mobility decisions in the future.