Climate reparations

Pakistan is at the forefront of the global climate crisis, facing extreme weather events that threaten lives, livelihoods and infrastructure. The 2022 floods, which claimed over 1,700 lives and displaced millions, serve as a painful reminder of the country's vulnerability to climate change. While Pakistan contributes less than 1% to global emissions, it bears a disproportionate share of the impact. The recent commitment by the UK to fund seven climate change initiatives is a promising step forward, but it barely scratches the surface of what is needed.

Among the UK-backed initiatives are groundbreaking plans such as a 500MW floating solar farm at Keenjhar Lake and AI-driven platforms to cut emissions. The conversion of agricultural waste into clean energy is also on the agenda, supported through the £12.6 million Climate Finance Accelerator. These efforts are commendable, and a first step towards building a more resilient Pakistan. However, the international community must recognise that while initiatives like these are valuable, they are not nearly enough. Pakistan requires substantial reparations to recover from the catastrophic impacts of extreme weather events and rebuild its infrastructure. These reparations are not acts of goodwill but a global responsibility. Wealthy nations have a moral and legal obligation to fund these efforts, not only because they are responsible for the majority of emissions but because they continue to profit from carbon-intensive industries while poorer nations face the consequences. This financial responsibility extends beyond one-time aid packages and involve sustained plans to help nations like Pakistan transition to a more sustainable future.

Without a comprehensive system of climate reparations, Pakistan will remain trapped in a cycle of destruction and recovery. True climate justice can only be achieved when those responsible for the crisis contribute their fair share. Anything less would be a continuation of the status quo, where the world's poorest pay the price for the climate sins of the richest.