Pakistan

Pakistan’s vulnerability to adverse impacts of climate change is well established and widely recognized. Despite Pakistan’s little contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions, it is among the top ten most climate-affected countries of the world, as indicated by the Global Climate Risk Index. Indeed, these are already occurring as Pakistan has started suffering with ever-increasing frequency and ferocity of climate-induced catastrophes.

The Himalayan glaciers, a vital source of water for millions, are retreating at an alarming rate. Erratic weather patterns have become the norm, with devastating consequences. 2010 marked a turning point; with unprecedented monsoon rains triggering catastrophic floods, affecting over 20 million people, displacing millions, and causing billions of dollars in damage. This was just the beginning. In 2022, Pakistan witnessed its worst floods ever, with over 33 million people directly impacted. The economic cost was staggering, exceeding $10 billion. These are just two examples; floods, droughts, and heatwaves have become recurring nightmares for Pakistanis over the years.

As part of the Zurich Climate Resilience Alliance, Concern Worldwide will work closely with local communities in Pakistan to develop locally led, people-centred early warning systems, and enable real-time disaster preparedness as a grassroots level.