In the face of torrential rains and a severe humanitarian crisis, Pakistan finds itself on the brink of collapse. Since June of last year, more than 1,700 people have lost their lives, while countless others have been injured or displaced. Homes, schools, and entire communities have been devastated, leaving the country grappling with immense challenges. The provinces of Sindh and Balochistan are submerged under standing water, amplifying health problems such as malaria and dengue. The nation’s per capita income is steadily dropping, further damaging food security and exacerbating acute malnutrition, affecting over 8.5 million people.
Amidst this turmoil, Pakistan’s former Prime Minister, Imran Khan, was arrested in May 2023 on charges of money laundering, along with his wife, Bushra. This arrest, however, is not an unprecedented event in Pakistan’s political history, with a long list of former premiers facing similar fates. Khan’s supporters claim that he was forcefully taken to an undisclosed location by security forces, sparking concerns of enforced disappearances and torture that have plagued the country. His opponents cynically remark, “Welcome to Pakistan,” highlighting the grim reality of daily life for many. Khan’s arrest presents an opportunity for him to regain political standing and symbolic martyrdom, which he had lost during his failed rule. His criticism of institutions, including the army, without presenting concrete evidence, has further polarised opinions. Despite being a protégé of the army, the former premier’s antagonistic stance against the military has added fuel to the fire, creating an environment of unrest and instability. As Pakistan tackles with preventing a civil war, the nation teeters on the edge of bankruptcy, intensifying its struggle for survival.
The devastating monsoon floods in late August and early September of 2022, exacerbated by climate change, have pushed between six and nine million Pakistanis into poverty. The World Bank warns that the poverty rate in the country is expected to rise by 2.5 to 4 percentage points as a direct result of the floods. The loss of jobs, livestock, crops, homes, and school closures, combined with the spread of diseases and rising food costs, further exacerbate this dire situation. Pakistan’s contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions is less than 1 percent, yet it ranks high among nations most vulnerable to extreme weather events caused by climate change. The World Bank report emphasises the urgent need for climate justice.
The United Nations climate science panel highlights the increasing frequency and severity of adverse weather events due to man-made emissions. Pakistan’s government calls on wealthier and more industrialised nations, with larger carbon footprints, to contribute to the aid effort as a form of climate justice. However, the nation’s already fragile economy is ill-equipped to provide a stimulus package that could create jobs and sustainable incomes for its people. Even before the deluge began, Pakistan was grappling with a cost-of-living crisis, a rapidly depreciating currency, and dwindling foreign exchange reserves. Inflation in the country is projected to reach a staggering 23 percent for the financial year 2023, as stated by the World Bank. With approximately 20 percent of the population already living below the poverty line, the socioeconomic recovery is expected to be a long and arduous journey.
As Pakistan fights to save lives and rebuild its shattered communities, the challenges it faces are multifaceted and daunting. The nation’s immediate priority lies in addressing the humanitarian crisis, providing shelter, healthcare, and essential services to those affected by the floods. Simultaneously, Pakistan must focus on long-term strategies to mitigate the impact of climate change, enhance disaster preparedness, and promote sustainable development. In this battle for survival, international support and solidarity are crucial. Wealthier nations with larger carbon footprints must heed the call for climate justice and contribute to the aid effort. Beyond immediate relief, investment in infrastructure, education, and healthcare is vital to uplift the millions of Pakistanis who have been plunged into poverty. Pakistan’s challenges serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for global action to combat climate change and address its disproportionate impact on vulnerable nations. Climate justice demands that countries take responsibility for their emissions and support those most affected by the consequences of climate change.
The country stands at a critical juncture, where the convergence of natural disasters and political instability threatens the very fabric of the nation. The resilience and determination of its people, coupled with international support, will play a crucial role in navigating the road to recovery. Only through concerted efforts, both domestically and globally, can Pakistan hope to rebuild and secure a sustainable future for its citizens. As the world watches Pakistan grapple with its challenges, it is imperative that we acknowledge the interconnectedness of our planet and the responsibility we all bear in addressing the global climate crisis. The time for action is now, as the fate of nations hangs in the balance, and the consequences of inaction will reverberate far beyond Pakistan’s borders.