This report forms part of an ODI project to assist developing countries participate effectively in international climate change negotiations. It presents the overall likely effects of climate change, as well as mitigation and adaptation efforts in developing countries, highlighting the particular vulnerability of the poor. The first section examines the increased hazards for developing countries due to sea level rise and increased frequency and intensity of natural disasters. To investigate the impacts on poor communities it draws parallels from the body of research on vulnerability and natural disasters. General conclusions highlight the devastating impacts which coastal communities will be exposed to, as well as pointing to specific developing countries and regions, which will be disadvantaged.