Pakistan’s Climate Resilience Budget Cuts Criticized as a Strategic Error Amid Rising Global Risks
Senator Sherry Rehman, Chairperson of the Senate Standing Committee on Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, expressed deep concern over the recent reduction in Pakistan’s climate-related budget allocations, warning that such cuts would undermine the country’s ability to address its climate vulnerabilities. She emphasized that Pakistan’s status as the most climate-vulnerable country globally necessitates stronger commitments and increased investments in climate resilience, especially at a time when international support and funding are critical.
During a review meeting of the Climate Ministry’s Budget 2025-2026, Senator Rehman criticized the decision to slash the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination’s budget from Rs3.5 billion to Rs2.7 billion. She highlighted that such reductions send negative signals to international donors and financiers, potentially hindering Pakistan’s prospects of accessing crucial global climate finance. Rehman underscored that, despite being a signatory to 26 international environmental treaties, Pakistan risks losing credibility on the global stage if it fails to demonstrate commitment through sustainable investments in resilience and adaptation efforts.
The senator pointed out that Pakistan’s ranking as the most climate-vulnerable nation, according to the Climate Risk Index 2025 by German Watch, is a stark reminder of the urgency for prioritized action. She called for increased budget allocations, notably supplementary funding for provinces with limited capacities, to ensure effective implementation of climate projects. She also emphasized that the underutilization of allocated funds reflects poor planning and coordination within the ministry, which hampers progress on vital climate initiatives.
Rehman voiced particular concern over the erosion of institutional research capacity within the Climate Ministry, which historically relied on expert-led, science-based decision-making. She noted that this capacity has significantly declined, affecting Pakistan’s ability to participate effectively in international climate forums and follow up on commitments. She also raised alarms about stalled wetland restoration projects across multiple provinces, highlighting the need for urgent action to protect these critical ecosystems, including the Margalla Hills, which are vital for the capital’s environmental and ecological health.
Addressing the issue of climate finance, Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Dr. Musadik Malik pointed out that Pakistan’s emissions are approximately 37% below its international threshold, yet the country receives only a modest $350 million in climate funding. Malik emphasized the global financing gap estimated between $100 billion and $200 billion, advocating for a fairer distribution of funds based on actual emissions and vulnerability levels. He urged for a more equitable approach that reflects Pakistan’s needs and contribution to global emissions.
Concluding his remarks, Senator Rehman called on the ministry to rebuild institutional capacity, enhance strategic coordination, and ensure climate goals are aligned with national economic policies. She stressed that effective, research-driven, and result-oriented measures are essential for Pakistan’s long-term climate resilience and international credibility. The meeting was attended by other senators, senior officials from the climate ministry, and related agencies, who deliberated on the crucial issues of funding, project implementation, and strategic planning to strengthen Pakistan’s climate response.
