How does the climate change and migration nexus result in maladaptation?

Migration decisions are made within a risky and uncertain environment affected by climate and environmental change as well as market, social, and economic forces. This study sheds light on the characteristics and causes of ineffective migration in the context of climate change and their consequences for maladaptation to climate change effects. It identifies how they undermine local livelihoods and increase the vulnerability of sending and receiving communities. For this purpose, we conducted a systematic review of 89 studies that have discussed issues related to human mobility in the face of climate change and maladaptation. The results are presented in three parts: the migrant households, destination communities, and the origin communities (which include migrants’ households left behind and trapped populations). This review explains how climate-influenced migration can lead to persistent poverty, food insecurity, increased inequality, exclusion, and isolation due to poverty, insufficient income, remittances, low skills and education, unequal access to rights, and language barriers. This study contributes to the literature by providing a clearer understanding of the dark side of migration in the context of the climate change and adaptation nexus. It can help policymakers and planners make better-informed decisions about managing climate-induced migrations.Improving access to education and skills training for migrants in areas affected by climate change is essential to reduce poverty and vulnerability in destination communities, helping migrants secure stable employment and reduce reliance on precarious livelihoods.Revising immigration policies to ensure migrants’ access to fundamental rights – such as employment, housing, and land ownership – can help break cycles of poverty and reduce anti-immigrant sentiment, fostering economic resilience.Public agencies and international organizations must prioritize monitoring and supporting ‘trapped’ populations unable to migrate due to financial or social constraints, offering timely assistance and pathways for safe relocation to mitigate their increased vulnerability.Spatial planning and migration incentives guiding migrants toward resilient, well-supported areas can protect fragile ecosystems and infrastructure, reducing risks to both migrants and receiving communities.Gender-sensitive adaptation strategies are vital; supporting educational and language skills for migrant women enhances their adaptive capacity, promotes social cohesion, and ensures equitable opportunities for integration.