Achieving climate justice without housing justice in the Global South is highly unlikely. Housing justice is a critical component of climate justice, and the two are deeply intertwined.

Here's why:

Housing as a Climate Justice Issue:

1. Right to Adequate Housing: The right to adequate housing is a fundamental human right, enshrined in international law. Climate change exacerbates housing insecurity, particularly for low-income and marginalized communities.

2. Displacement and Migration: Climate-related disasters and slow-onset events, such as sea-level rise, displacement, and migration, are increasingly affecting communities in the Global South. Housing justice is essential for addressing the needs of displaced persons and migrants.

3. Energy Poverty and Access to Basic Services: In many parts of the Global South, housing is often inadequate, and access to basic services like energy, water, and sanitation is limited. Climate justice requires addressing energy poverty and ensuring access to basic services.
4. Urban Planning and Infrastructure: Climate-resilient urban planning and infrastructure are critical for reducing the risk of climate-related disasters. Housing justice is essential for ensuring that urban planning prioritizes the needs of marginalized communities.

Why Housing Justice is Essential for Climate Justice:

1. Addressing Structural Inequalities: Housing justice addresses the structural inequalities that exacerbate climate vulnerability. By prioritizing the housing needs of marginalized communities, we can reduce their exposure to climate-related risks.
2. Promoting Climate Resilience: Housing justice promotes climate resilience by ensuring that housing is designed, built, and maintained to withstand climate-related stresses.
3. Supporting Community-Led Initiatives: Housing justice supports community-led initiatives that prioritize the needs and perspectives of marginalized communities.
4. Fostering Sustainable and Equitable Urban Development: Housing justice fosters sustainable and equitable urban development by promoting inclusive and participatory urban planning processes.