THE enire climate crisis is commonly perceived as a technical matter with geopolitical connotations, but it is equally, if not more, a pressing humani- tarian issue. The compounding reper- cussions of conflict, insecurity and climate change mark the contours of contemporary humanitarian crisis.

From the devastating floods in Pakistan to enduring droughts in East Africa, the planet is witnessing an escalating frequency of climate-related disasters.

Remarkably, these crises often afflict nations that have contributed least to the problem of climate change, with limited support from those primarily responsible for the bulk of global carbon emissions.

In 2018, the 20 countries accounting for 90 per cent of global humanitarian needs were responsible for a mere 5pc of carbon emissions. Pakistan has grappled with the consequences of climate change in recent years, including shifting seasonal weather patterns, rising temperatures, unpredictable monsoons, and glacier melt in the north.

The 2022 flood in Pakistan was a grim illustration of a humanitarian crisis on a massive scale. Entire towns, critical infrastructure, homes, farmlands, and crops were swept away. The victims faced an elevated risk of diseases, and the crisis was further exacerbated by the destruction of over 800 healthcare facilities in the affected areas.

Escalating temperatures are driving environmental degradation, natural disasters, extreme weather events, food and water insecurity, as well as economic disruptions.

We must hold the wealthier nations responsible for their massive carbon footprints, and make them fulfil their pledge to provide financial assistance to help lower-income countries cope with the impacts of climate change.

Shabnam Baloch
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, September 21st, 2023