Pakistan is at the forefront of a climate crisis, reeling from the impacts of extreme weather events worsened by global climate change. The World Bank has projected staggering financial needs for the country, estimating at least $350 billion is required between now and 2030 to combat the adverse effects of climate change. This figure looms large over Pakistan, which ranks as the fifth most climate-vulnerable nation globally. The financial burden is even heavier considering the devastating 2022 floods, which displaced 8 million people and inflicted economic damage totaling $14.9 billion—an astounding 4.8% of the nation's GDP.
Despite the urgent need for external financial assistance, Pakistan has struggled to secure the climate financing pledged by wealthier nations. Although these nations are largely responsible for the world's emissions, many have fallen short of their commitments, leaving Pakistan with gaps in funding its climate adaptation efforts. This reliance on international support has made it clear; as stated by various experts, this isn't merely a local crisis—it is also indicative of global failures to adequately address climate change.
The $350 billion estimate itself is considered conservative, as it does not include necessary investments for sustainable agriculture, flood management, and rural infrastructure. Pakistan’s annual development budget averages just $11 billion, casting doubt on the country's ability to confront its climate challenges.
To address this pressing issue, experts suggest adopting a dual approach. Domestically, the country must prioritize climate adaptation within its development plans. The approach includes regulating urban expansion to mitigate ecological degradation, increasing investments in renewable energy, and establishing comprehensive flood management systems and social protection networks. Meanwhile, the international community must also fulfill its financial commitments, including the long-promised annual climate fund of $100 billion.
Highlighting the harsh realities faced by many communities, agro-pastoral farmers across Pakistan continue to navigate the fallout from climate change, grappling with increasing economic challenges and rising food prices. Initiatives like the recently launched "Pakistan Seed Security Prototype" by the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and Unilever seek to empower local communities. Unveiled at the "Pakistan’s Humanitarian Future Event 2025," this initiative aims to build resilience within farming communities through green entrepreneurship and innovative practices to mitigate emissions.
Romina Khursid Alam, the Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change, clarified the stakes involved: "Our agriculture is significantly threatened by water scarcity, and we need to invest in long-term solutions to tackle these challenges." This statement underlines the acute distress facing farmers dependent on glaciers and rivers, as water shortages threaten agricultural productivity—a cornerstone of Pakistan's economy.
The findings from the IRC and Unilever report indicate alarming trends: farmers are facing declining seed quality and availability coupled with erratic weather. These factors have compounded the vulnerability of agricultural cycles and pushed many farmers toward greater financial instability.
Waqas Dar, Country Director for the IRC-Pakistan, points out another significant factor: "Achieving sustained growth in agricultural production and productivity heavily depends on developing improved crop varieties and establishing efficient systems to secure timely availability of high-quality seeds to farmers." This highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions to bolster food systems as climate risks escalate.
Pakistan’s plight extends beyond farming. The nation’s current predicament has exposed systemic failures not only at home but also within the broader framework of international climate cooperation. Wealthier countries have made promises of support but their lack of action and unfulfilled commitments continue to leave countries like Pakistan vulnerable to environmental extremes.
The spotlight now falls on global leaders to accelerate their responses. Climate reparations may partially address the debts owed to Pakistan, particularly as evidence mounts about the burdens experienced due to other nations’ emissions for which Pakistan bears no responsibility. Experts argue this moral obligation should prompt industrialized nations to act decisively.
Pakistan faces monumental challenges; but with strategic policy shifts and accountability from rich nations, it could turn its climate vulnerabilities around, paving the way for sustainable agricultural practices and enhanced resilience. With time running short and needs mounting, it is clear immediate, cohesive actions are necessary for the future survival of communities and economies reliant on agriculture.