Choosing Between Climate Justice and Survival: Insights from the Pakistan Observer

One-third of Pakistan was underwater during the summer of 2022. This disaster displaced thirty-three million people and caused billions in damage. Climate change is now an everyday reality for Pakistanis. Despite its vulnerability, the country’s ability to seek climate justice is weak.

Although Pakistan emits less than one percent of global greenhouse gases, it ranks among the ten countries most affected by climate disasters. Urban areas, especially Lahore, suffer from toxic smog, floods, and droughts. Unfortunately, legal action for environmental harm is often disorganized and limited. Victims struggle to receive fair compensation, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive climate justice.

Climate justice means more than protecting the environment—it’s about holding those responsible accountable for the harm they cause, especially to vulnerable communities. While the Climate Change Act of 2017 created a framework for action, it has not strongly addressed transboundary environmental issues. This gap was evident during the 2022 floods and ongoing smog crisis.

Some progress has been made in court. The Lahore High Court recognized climate change as a serious threat to citizens’ rights in the 2015 Leghari case. However, this was an isolated instance. The Climate Change Commission established by the court has not produced lasting results and often goes unnoticed.

In comparison, India has its National Green Tribunal, which has handled thousands of environmental cases. Bangladesh has made strides with a Climate Resilience Fund. Pakistan, however, still lacks a specialized tribunal and struggles with inconsistent enforcement of environmental laws.

Pakistan’s reliance on water from India raises further concerns, especially with ongoing disputes over the Indus Waters Treaty. Projects like the Kishanganga Dam have sparked tensions. As climate change alters water availability, disputes may involve not just treaty interpretations but also environmental damage and ecological compensation.

To address these challenges, Pakistan needs a modern legal framework that integrates climate science and international environmental law. Establishing a National Climate Justice Commission could help manage environmental grievances and support discussions on cross-border issues.

While neighboring countries have been active in climate diplomacy, Pakistan has been more reactive. It lacks initiatives for climate governance in regional forums. The country should consider suggesting a South Asian Climate Tribunal to address shared climate concerns.

The road to climate justice in Pakistan is long and challenging. Inaction is no longer an option. Issues like river depletion and air pollution are already evident. Climate change is now a matter of national survival and equitable legal accountability. If Pakistan does not act, future crises could be even more devastating.

The need for proactive measures is clear, and the time to act is now.



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