Impact of climate change on the SAARC region: National security implications for Pakistan

Noor Nawaz; Dr. Humera Akhtar; Sheikh Arslan Zafar

Authors

Noor Nawaz M.Phil. Scholar of International Relations at Minhaj University Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan Author
Dr. Humera Akhtar Assistant Professor at the Political Science Department, University of Central Punjab, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan Author
Sheikh Arslan Zafar M.Phil. Scholar of International Relations at Minhaj University Lahore, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan Author

Keywords:

Climate Change, SAARC, Non-traditional Security, Environmental Security Theory, Indo-Pak Rivalry, Water Wars

Abstract

One of the most urgent global challenges today is climate change, and because of its geographic, economic, and sociopolitical factors, South Asia is among the most affected regions. The study explores climate change as a non-traditional security threat to the SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) region, focusing especially on Pakistan. Rising temperatures, irregular monsoon patterns, melting glaciers, and extreme weather events have significant impacts on national security, food security, economic stability, and human displacement. This research is qualitative, employing environmental security theory to examine how resource disputes and geopolitical tensions shape the future of the SAARC region. Additionally, to promote Pakistan's ecological sustainability, the study concludes with policy recommendations for adaptation and potential mitigation measures. It argues that although climate change is a global, non-traditional security threat, a regional, non-traditional approach is crucial in South Asia. Furthermore, it suggests that Pakistan and India, as key players, need to move past their differences. Therefore, the effects of climate change on Pakistan are extensive, and how the country addresses this challenge will significantly impact regional stability and prosperity, both broadly and specifically for Pakistan.

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