Examining Risks, Vulnerabilities, and Climate Change Adaptation in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) of the Caribbean: A Qualitative Study on the Case of Dominica

Introduction: There is an urgent need to understand the impacts of anthropogenic climate change in Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS). These territories face disproportionate climate-related events and other challenges that could affect public health. Yet, there is a gap in localized research to inform adaptation strategies. The inclusion of community experiences and perspectives in research and policy planning is crucial for addressing adaptation measures to climate change.
Goals and Methods: Our aim was to explore the perspectives of individuals displaced (or migrated) by climate events (hurricane and storm). We used a qualitative descriptive case study design to examine health risks and factors of vulnerabilities to climate-related events in a Caribbean context. From 2020 to 2021, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 25 internally displaced people following an extreme climate event. Interview guides were based on conceptual frameworks on climate change, migration and health, and vulnerability. We analyzed interviews thematically with a deductive and inductive approach.
Results: Our research revealed crucial themes in climate change adaptation, offering diverse insights into Caribbean SIDS. Participants showed varied climate change awareness influenced by factors like education and information exposure. Identified challenges included limited healthcare access and mental health issues. Climate events pose potential health risks through these announced vulnerabilities, with unequal resource access and political factors potentially exacerbating susceptibility. The study emphasized the pivotal role of social capital and community engagement in bolstering local adaptive capacity. Recommendations underscore the significance of education, infrastructure improvement, and human resources development for a comprehensive approach to adaptation.
Conclusions: Our qualitative study conducted in Dominica sheds light on critical themes and insights vital for climate change adaptation in SIDS. Displaced individuals' varied perspectives highlight the pressing need for challenging strategies addressing climate awareness, mental health, vulnerabilities, inequalities from institutions, political favoritism, and social capital to build adaptability.