CADA recently hosted a thought-provoking series of events in Belfast, featuring award-winning author and science journalist Gaia Vince. Over several impactful days in May, her visit brought critical conversations on climate justice, global inequality, and climate-induced migration to the forefront.
Public Dialogue at Queen’s University Belfast
The centrepiece of the visit was a public event held in partnership with the Institute for Global Food Security at Queen’s University Belfast. In a compelling keynote address, Gaia emphasised the urgent need for equitable responses to displacement and food insecurity.
Her talk was followed by a powerful panel discussion chaired by Sharon Huws (Queen’s University), with expert contributions from Amanda Slevin (Queen’s University), Rosamond Bennett (Christian Aid Ireland), and Ross Fitzpatrick (Christian Aid Ireland). Opening and closing remarks were delivered by Dr. Gareth Arnott (Queens University). Together, the speakers tackled the realities of climate-induced displacement and called for greater global responsibility to protect the rights and dignity of affected communities.
Ground-Level Perspectives and Community Voices
Beyond the university setting, Gaia Vince also took part in an informal meet-and-greet hosted by Save the Children UK in Belfast. This small gathering brought together diaspora representatives, CADA members, and academics to explore lived experiences of migration.
The Horn of Africa People’s Aid Northern Ireland (HAPANI) shared a deeply moving testimony about the discrimination and hardship faced by migrants in Belfast. These insights sparked an important conversation about the power of language in shaping public perception. Participants reflected on how negative narratives, often perpetuated by some sections of the media, can reinforce prejudice and even lead to violence. The message was clear: responsible, compassionate communication is vital in building a more just and inclusive society.
Policy Engagement at Stormont
Capping off the visit, Gaia addressed a cross-party meeting at Stormont through the All-Party Groups on International Development and Climate Action. Thanks were extended to John Blair MLA and Cara Hunter MLA for their contributions to this timely and important dialogue.
Continuing the Conversation
CADA is committed to ensuring that these conversations do not end here. As climate impacts intensify, particularly in vulnerable regions of the Global South, climate migration is no longer a distant possibility but an unfolding reality.
We urge policymakers, communities, and civil society to continue this vital work together.
Back row, L-R: Gerard McCann (St Mary University College), Ellie Irving (CADA), Peter Heaney (Trócaire and CADA),
Front row L-R: Dr Amanda Slevin (QUB), Gaia Vince, Eithne McNulty (CADA), Professor Sharon Huws (QUB)