Disaster Displacement and International Protection in the EU

This book investigates the reasons behind the absence of consolidated protection concerning disaster displacement in the EU. It identifies three key reasons for this gap:1) The way disaster displacement—along with its causes, dynamics, and the nature of harm—is conceptualized at both EU and national levels. 2) The interpretation and application of international protection statuses by asylum authorities and decision-makers, particularly in the context of disaster displacement. 3) The restrictive asylum policies adopted by decision-makers, which prioritize deterrence and create significant barriers to accessing protection. Through a comprehensive and detailed analysis, it sheds light on the challenges and misconceptions faced by individuals displaced across borders due to disasters. It offers a thorough examination of existing legislation, policies, and case law at both the national and EU levels, with a particular focus on Italy. By addressing these issues, it provides a valuable insight for academics, policymakers, and decision-makers, advocating for an evolutive approach to protection claims related to disaster displacement. It calls for the dismantling of State-led barriers to asylum, arguing that such measures are neither effective nor human rights compliant.