Climate Risk Insurance: Considerations for Operationalizing Micro- and Meso-level Premium Support
Climate risk insurance (CRI) is a key tool for enhancing the financial resilience of vulnerable populations in the Global South. However, uptake remains low at the micro and meso levels due to affordability constraints, limited awareness, low trust, and underdeveloped markets. Premium support can help bridge this protection gap by improving accessibility, demonstrating the value of CRI, and supporting market development. This paper provides insights and considerations for policymakers, donors, insurance providers and other stakeholders involved in developing and implementing premium support schemes. It identifies four critical considerations:
Clarifying roles and ownership among governments, insurers, and development actors;
Ensuring sustainability through long-term planning and gradual phase-out strategies;
Targeting the most climate-vulnerable using inclusive, data-informed approaches; and
Maximizing transparency in scheme design, funding, and performance.
By addressing these key dimensions, stakeholders can work towards creating more effective and sustainable solutions that enhance the climate resilience of vulnerable populations.