Kiribati, an island country, contains 33 coral atolls scattered across the Central Pacific Ocean, only 20 of which people currently inhabit. These low-lying islands, with their highest points about three meters above sea level, rank among the most vulnerable to changing weather patterns. As seas rise and extreme weather events occur more and more frequently, homelessness in Kiribati is emerging as a growing humanitarian crisis.

The Impact of Climate on Homelessness in Kiribati

Recent World Bank research indicates that sea levels could rise by as much as 0.5 meters between 2070 and 2110, potentially flooding 50% to 80% of Kiribati’s major urban areas. But even ahead of this daunting statistic, climate-related disasters such as flooding and extreme weather events have already worsened the housing crisis.

In June 2025, the Kiribati National Statistics Office reported that 60% of households that experienced climate disasters in the past year sustained home damage, primarily due to strong winds and heavy rain. Nearly 4,000 people had to leave their homes, underscoring the urgent need for emergency housing and the growing challenge of homelessness in Kiribati.

Despite the challenges, most residents maintain a deep attachment to their land and traditions and are reluctant to leave. In response, the Foundation for the Peoples of the South Pacific Kiribati (FSPK) is a local nonprofit leading local efforts to combat homelessness and housing insecurity. Here are examples of three key initiatives making a difference today.

Modular Affordable & Climate-Resilient Housing Initiatives

In Kiribati’s crowded capital, families average 7.3 members and often live in open shacks packed closely together. Additionally, there are frequent land disputes, and many have resorted to creating their own sea walls made from coral as an attempt to hold off flood waters. To address these housing issues, FSPK partnered with Karmod to introduce modular, quick-build homes that offer sustainable, flood-resistant shelter for vulnerable communities. These serve as faster shelter solutions for vulnerable communities facing threats from rising seas. These homes are a direct response to the increasing homelessness in Kiribati, driven by sea-level rise and climate-related disasters.

Women & Youth-Driven Climate Resilience

Thanks to FSPK’s partnership with Action on Poverty, women and youth who past leadership excluded from decision-making in community planning are now leading community-based adaptation efforts. Resilience projects include digging freshwater wells and kitchen gardens, efforts which boost food and water security, and therefore reduce the need for forced, climate-related relocation. By deliberately targeting those most vulnerable to climate impacts and housing insecurity, the program empowers women and children to recognize their role in adaptation and building a more resilient future.

Advocacy for Government and Donor Support

In March 2025, FSPK co-developed a proposal in partnership with the Kiribati government, targeting an international climate finance mechanism called the Adaptation Fund Board. The proposal aims to secure funding for climate resilience efforts, specifically by engaging donor governments and mobilizing national and international NGO support. The proposal also highlights the impact of initiatives led by FSPK and local communities, and encourages ongoing government collaboration to develop scalable solutions.

Looking Ahead

Homelessness in Kiribati continues to rise as climate threats intensify, putting countless residents at risk. However, local organizations like FSPK, are leading effective solutions, bringing hope and stability to these vulnerable communities. To help ensure a safer future for Kiribati, supporting groups like FSPK and donating to climate-focused housing initiatives is more important than ever.

– Kaitlin Reed

Kaitlin is based in Austin, TX, USA, and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels