Press release

HRCP joins call for reparations, demands environmental justice from the global community

Lahore, 6 September 2022. In light of the devastating floods that have affected at least 30 million people, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) joins the call for immediate reparations from the global community, particularly from high-emitting countries that are directly responsible for the climate crisis.

Already cash-strapped by record-high inflation rates and economic recessions, low-income groups in Pakistan have been pushed to breaking point by unprecedented floods throughout the region—with over 1,000 lives lost, and homes and livelihoods destroyed. Roads and health infrastructure, including basic health units and district hospitals, have also been submerged, posing a threat to those in urgent need of medical aid such as pregnant women, children and the elderly.

While there is much left to be desired in the government’s relief and rehabilitation plan for the flood-affected, it is clear that Pakistan is paying the price for a disaster that was preventable and, more importantly, not of its own doing. According to the World Bank and Asian Development Bank, Pakistan has historically accounted for only 0.4% of greenhouse gas emissions. Yet, it is one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world. This imbalance indicates that all countries must join together and devise not just climate-change solutions, but also climate justice measures that keep the principles of equity and accountability at the forefront.

At present, Pakistan’s resources must be used to rehabilitate its people and rebuild its infrastructure, not to pay external debts. Providing climate change reparations is the bare minimum, for which global leaders must be held responsible.

Hina Jilani
Chairperson