Managed Retreat: Lessons and Challenges for Transformative Futures | Jola Ajibade

As managed retreat programmes expand worldwide, critical questions remain about whether relocation reduces climate risk and improves living conditions—or instead reinforces existing inequalities. In this presentation at the Holcim Foundation Forum 2025, environmental geographer Jola Ajibade, Associate Professor at Emory University, examines the realities of managed retreat across diverse global contexts. Drawing on insights from 140 resettlement programmes in the Global North and Global South, the talk explores case studies from Puerto Rico, Nigeria, the Philippines, Brazil, Fiji, Rwanda, Austria and the United States. Ajibade analyses the successes, challenges and emerging innovations shaping retreat outcomes, including governance structures, planning strategies, social ties, timing, funding mechanisms and access to economic opportunities. The presentation places particular emphasis on justice, equity and decision-making, highlighting how framing and process influence whether relocation efforts become transformative or harmful. It also outlines the critical role that planners, architects and non-profit organisations can play in shaping more just, inclusive and future-oriented retreat strategies. Recorded at the Holcim Foundation Forum 2025.