Islamabad, Pakistan – The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has released a vital report highlighting the need to enforce Article 9A of the Constitution. This article guarantees every citizen a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, yet its significance often goes unnoticed.
Pakistan is currently one of the most vulnerable countries facing climate change. Disasters like flash floods, droughts, and heatwaves have become common. Major cities like Lahore and Karachi are now among the most polluted in the world. Issues such as deforestation and biodiversity loss are worsening as well.
The HRCP’s report, titled “The promise of Article 9A, bridging constitutional rights and environmental governance,” argues that this article serves as a foundation for advocating access to clean air, safe drinking water, effective waste management, and environmental justice. It points out that the government must not only avoid harming the environment but also take proactive steps to protect and fulfill citizens’ environmental rights.
Implementing Article 9A means creating transparent systems for monitoring air and water quality. It also requires enhancing laws and policies to ensure this right is respected. The report emphasizes that climate justice is closely tied to social and economic equity.
Recent studies show that nearly 80% of Pakistanis believe the government is failing to address environmental issues adequately. This public sentiment reflects a growing demand for accountability and action in tackling climate vulnerability.
To realize the rights under Article 9A, the HRCP suggests reviewing existing laws related to environmental protection and introducing new legislation to address urgent environmental concerns. Proposed policies should prioritize sustainability in every government initiative, ensuring that projects do not infringe upon the right to a clean environment.
The existing Climate Change Council, established under the Climate Change Act of 2017, may face challenges due to gaps in federal legislation. Strengthening this council could pave the way for effective governance in environmental matters.
As the climate crisis worsens, acknowledging a fundamental right to a clean and healthy environment is essential. Doing so can help pave the way for a more sustainable future, ultimately protecting both the planet and its people.
For more insights on environmental governance, check out the HRCP report.
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Pakistan, environment, HRCP, Article 9A
