Pakistan has warned of the “apocalyptic” consequences of climate change on its people and economy, pointing to the catastrophic 2022 floods that submerged a third of the country, displaced 33 million people, and caused damage estimated at over $16 billion.
At the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Attorney General Mansoor Awan presented Pakistan’s case, emphasizing the severe impact of climate change despite Pakistan contributing less than 1% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Quoting the UN Secretary-General, Awan highlighted that Pakistanis are 15 times more likely to die from climate-related events than other nations.
Pakistan urged that climate commitments be based on equity, as outlined in the Paris Agreement, and that financial assistance and cooperation be part of any solution. The country stressed that climate obligations should align with principles like common but differentiated responsibilities (CBDR-RC), and that disputes over such obligations must be resolved through established mechanisms within treaties.
Pakistan also argued that the obligation to prevent harm, including greenhouse gas emissions, is rooted in international law and applies to all nations, including those contesting its application. The country emphasized that no nation can claim ignorance of the harmful effects of its actions, especially regarding climate change.
“We are the first generation to feel the impact of climate change and the last that can do something about it,” Pakistan’s representatives concluded.
