Unpacking Climate Colonialism: How It’s Impacting Pakistan’s Future

Climate change isn’t just about rising temperatures and extreme weather; it’s also tied to a history of exploitation and colonialism. Countries in the Global South, like Pakistan, are facing the worst impacts of climate change, even though they are not major contributors to global emissions. The devastating floods in Pakistan in 2022 serve as a tragic example of this reality.

In 2022, Pakistan was hit by catastrophic floods caused by heavy monsoon rains. The Indus River overflowed, affecting over 33 million people and destroying homes, infrastructure, and farmland. This disaster exacerbated food insecurity and unemployment, forcing many farmers to confront the loss of crops and livestock. The floods didn’t just wipe out livelihoods; they also brought ongoing dangers of disease and hunger.

From thousands of kilometers away in Germany, I watched the news unfold. Headlines spoke of a country drowning in despair. Thoughts of my family back home filled me with a mix of anguish and fear. When I finally heard that my ancestral home had been flooded and my relatives displaced, it hit home that this was not just a natural disaster—it was a sign of deeper, systemic issues connected to colonial history.

Colonialism has left a lasting mark on Pakistan’s environment. The British Empire exploited the country’s natural resources, prioritizing agricultural production over sustainability. This method created long-term environmental degradation. The British also introduced extensive irrigation schemes that disrupted natural water systems, contributing to current vulnerabilities like flooding.

Despite producing less than 1% of global carbon emissions, Pakistan suffers immensely from climate change impacts. The 2022 floods were intensified by rising global temperatures and shifting weather patterns. Warmer air holds more moisture, leading to heavier rain, while melting glaciers heighten the risk of floods in the region. This isn’t just bad luck; it’s a direct consequence of the industrial activities of the Global North.

The concept of “climate colonialism” helps explain how historical exploitation shapes ongoing vulnerabilities. As noted by experts, countries with a history of colonialism, like Pakistan, continue to face environmental challenges that stem from past injustices. While wealthy nations have enjoyed the spoils of industrialization, countries in the Global South carry the burden of environmental crises.

The impact of colonialism goes beyond just environmental degradation. Political systems established during colonial times have fostered inequalities that still affect governance in Pakistan today. The political elites inherited from the colonial past often prioritize the wealthy at the expense of vulnerable populations. During the floods, this failure was evident in the inadequate emergency responses for the millions displaced.

It’s apparent that Pakistan cannot tackle the climate crisis alone. The devastation from the floods underscores the need for international support that looks beyond short-term aid. Instead, it should involve reparations from countries that have contributed to climate change over the years. Climate justice demands accountability from the Global North, which should provide both financial and technical support to those impacted by climate disasters.

The call for reparations gained traction at the 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP27), where Pakistan advocated for a facility to compensate the nation for losses endured. This effort emphasizes the need for systemic change in climate governance, urging that historical responsibility be acknowledged and addressed.

The message is clear: the legacy of colonialism continues to shape environmental crises in countries like Pakistan. While the floods in 2022 were devastating, they are also a call to recognize the interconnectedness of history and current challenges. Moving forward requires an open dialogue about past wrongs and a commitment to create a more equal and sustainable future.

As we reflect on these issues, we must ask ourselves: will wealthy nations step up and take responsibility? Will they help lift countries like Pakistan out from under the weight of colonial legacies and the devastating impacts of climate change? The answer holds the key to a more equitable world.

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