The Amnesty International has said that pleddges for flood recovery must be followed through with meaningful climate action.
In response to the news of donor pledges exceeding financial goals to cross the $9 billion mark during the International Conference on Climate Resilient Pakistan 2023 held jointly with the UN in Geneva yesterday Rimmel Mohydin, South Asia Campaigner at Amnesty International said that pleddges made by the world in this regards is appreciated.
“Many States have stepped up to assist Pakistan as it begins its long and difficult journey to recover from last year’s devastating floods. While this is a welcome step from States that are among those most responsible for climate change, it should not wash their conscience. Not only must they immediately meet their pledges but also ensure that there is decisive commitment to reduce emissions, phase out fossil fuels and provide funds to quickly operationalize the Loss and Damage fund established at COP27,” Rimmel Mohydin said
In addition, it is essential that the funds be used by Pakistan in a fair, inclusive, and transparent manner. The Pakistani authorities must ensure that the most marginalized groups, across gender and socio-economic status, and those that are already pushed well past the brink of poverty and are vulnerable to disease, displacement and hunger, have the assistance they need,” Rimmel Mohydin added.
The use of the funds to prioritize rehabilitative efforts should be done through broad consultation, including with people affected and civil society. There should be independent monitoring of how the funds are being used so that the public can demand accountability on the use of the donations to ensure a just recovery.
Background
Donors from around the world have pledged more than $9bn (exceeding the target of 8 billion) to help Pakistan recover from the devastating floods that hit the country last year. This follows a fundraising call of $186 million for initial emergency relief held by the United Nations, where less than half of the amount was raised.
The flood damage in Pakistan in 2022 covered three quarters of the country, leaving close to a million people without access to safe and adequate housing. While Pakistan has accounted for 0.4% of historic emissions and yet it is listed as one of the most climate vulnerable places in the world – a devastating reminder of the consequences of climate change and the need for states to catch up with their adaptation and mitigation efforts.