Brief – Climate Security

Thematic Stream: Climate Security & Sustainability

Problem: The Global Climate Risk Index 2020 estimates that Pakistan is among the top ten countries most vulnerable to climate change. While the issue of climate change is closely tied to environmental degradation, it is also an issue of fundamental human rights. Article 25 of the International Human Rights declaration declares that “Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself”. Article 9 of the Constitution of Pakistan also emphasizes the right to life and liberty. Expanding on the Right to Life, various case laws have guaranteed the the right to livelihood; right to clean air; right to a healthy environment; right to protection of environment; right to clean drinking water; right to protection against air pollution; right to proper food; right to a clean atmosphere; and the right to unpolluted water.

The issue of climate change impacts all fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution and International Human Rights standards. With Pakistan on the receiving end of the worst climate impacts, it is essential to take the issue of climate change through the lens of climate equity and climate justice.

Goal: To advocate for climate and environmental justice, in line with fundamental human rights guaranteed by the constitution of Pakistan, and as enshrined under International Human Rights Law.

Approach: To advocate and work towards fair division, fair sharing, and equitable distribution of the benefits and burdens of climate change and the responsibilities to deal with climate change while strengthening climate resilience and informing policy-making through research and capacity development.

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