Involuntary Migration: A Growing Global Risk


An article written by Juliana Cloutier IMCM, Managing Director at Alta Invest RCBI Solutions.
The Global Risks Report 2024, published by the World Economic Forum (WEF), highlights involuntary migration as one of the most significant global risks over the next two to ten years. Drawing insights from nearly 1,500 leaders across academia, government, civil society, and business, the report shows how climate change, geopolitical tensions, economic instability, and societal polarization are converging to drive migration on an unprecedented scale.
Upon reviewing the WEF’s Global Risks Reports from the past five years, it is evident that involuntary migration has not always been identified as a top-tier risk. This recent shift signals the growing urgency of addressing this issue, requiring attention not only from governments but also from industries particularly the investment migration industry, which must adapt to these changes in the global landscape.

The Complex Drivers of Involuntary Migration
Climate Change: Climate-induced disasters like wildfires, floods, and droughts are displacing millions, especially in regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and small island states. As global temperatures change drastically, many more are likely to become climate refugees, underscoring the need for both adaptation and mitigation efforts.
Geo-economic Instability: Economic instability—driven by rising inflation, economic downturns, and debt crises—is forcing populations to migrate, particularly in regions where economic fragility and interstate conflict coexist, such as in parts of Africa and Eastern Europe.
Conflict and Societal Polarization: Wars in regions like Ukraine, Sudan, and Syria have displaced millions; while growing societal polarization and the rise of authoritarianism push more people to seek safety. Combined with economic instability, these drivers make long-term displacement inevitable, increasing pressure on both sending and receiving countries.
The Intersection of Involuntary Migration and Investment Migration
At first glance, involuntary migration and investment migration may appear to operate at opposite ends of the migration spectrum. However, there are critical intersections between these phenomena that the investment migration industry must recognize and address. As forced migration accelerates due to climate change, conflict, and economic fragility, the same underlying risks are also prompting high-net worth individuals (HNWIs) to explore investment migration to protect their personal and financial security.
For HNWIs, obtaining a second residence or citizenship through investment migration programs is a proactive strategy to mitigate the very risks that are driving involuntary migration for others. This dual nature of modern migration—necessity for some, foresight for others—reflects a broader global trend where all populations, regardless of wealth, are responding to the same destabilizing forces.
Investment migration professionals must engage with these global dynamics thoughtfully. Rather than merely facilitating global mobility, investment migration programs must be positioned as offering security in an increasingly uncertain world. This requires a shift in how the industry communicates the value of its offerings—not just as luxury options, but as essential components of global risk management.
The Role of Investment Migration in a Volatile World
As the investment migration industry grows, it must evolve in response to the global environment increasingly shaped by forced migration and geopolitical volatility. Countries offering residence-by investment (RBI) or citizenship-by-investment (CBI) programs are uniquely positioned to market these options as a form of insurance against instability. For high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), obtaining a second passport has become more than a luxury—it’s now an essential safeguard for protecting their families and assets.
For investment migration professionals, the emphasis must shift beyond traditional mobility and flexibility. The new focus should be on risk mitigation, where citizenship diversification is part of a comprehensive global risk management strategy. A second passport offers protection from political unrest, access to more secure healthcare systems, and financial resilience in uncertain times. This strategic messaging will resonate with clients seeking tangible security.
From a policy perspective, countries offering RBI and CBI programs can leverage these initiatives for broader national benefit. Governments could align revenues from these programs with efforts to strengthen national resilience, promote climate adaptation, or support displaced populations.
Policy Implications for Governments and the Investment Migration Industry
The WEF’s Global Risks Report makes it clear that the forces driving involuntary migration will only intensify in the coming decade. This presents both challenges and opportunities for the investment migration industry. Governments that operate RBI and CBI programs must be aware that the demand for global mobility options will rise in tandem with increasing instability worldwide.
At the same time, the investment migration industry must be attuned to the evolving needs of its clientele. Offering a second passport is no longer just about facilitating movement—it is about offering security in a world where that security is increasingly elusive. Investment migration professionals must design strategies that reflect these new realities and position their programs as part of a broader effort to help clients safeguard their future in an uncertain global environment.