Monthly Archives: December 2023

SUMMARY of the Article “A precarious world in 2024” by Maleeha Lodhi, Published on December 4th, 2023

Maleeha Lodhi’s analysis of the geopolitical landscape for 2024 anticipates a world marked by heightened instability, driven by escalating geopolitical tensions, global market volatility, and a multitude of crises. The wars in Gaza and Ukraine, along with the US-China confrontation, have further fragmented the international landscape, contributing to a troubled outlook. A record number of elections across the globe, including the US, adds to the uncertainty. The shift towards a more multipolar world is evident, but multilateral institutions face persistent stress. Key trends include “multipolar disorder,” as predicted by The Economist, and the onset of the “age of polycrisis,” as highlighted by the World Economic Forum. The US-China relationship remains a focal point, characterized by differences on various issues, with potential for continued turbulence. While conflicts persist, East-West tensions may intensify, particularly with the ongoing war in Ukraine. The Palestinian issue, brought to the forefront by Israel’s actions in Gaza, challenges Arab governments and major powers to seek lasting peace and » Read More…

SUMMARY of the article “Promises, promises(COP28 summit),” Editorial, published on December 3rd, 2023

The ongoing COP28 summit in the UAE holds significant importance in the global climate discourse, especially for nations like Pakistan. Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar stressed Pakistan’s urgent need for “sufficient, additional, and predictable grant-based climate finance” from developed nations. He called for the immediate execution of the $100 billion goal for climate finance, emphasizing that this should not increase the debt burden of developing states. Mr Kakar urged for a robust framework for global adaptation goals with clear targets, indicators, and progress monitoring, proposing that at least half of climate finance be allocated to adaptation. He highlighted Pakistan’s proactive climate initiatives, including a 60% reduction in projected emissions by 2030 and the introduction of the National Adaptation Plan and Living Indus Initiative. The COP28 summit witnessed the establishment of the Loss and Damage Fund to aid poorer countries in coping with climate disasters. However, the fund falls short of the $100 billion sought by developing nations, revealing challenges in securing adequate financial support. Discussions on fossil fuels at COP28 have been contentious, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres advocating for a » Read More…

SUMMARY of the article “The health-climate nexus” by Zofeen T. Ebrahim, published on December 2nd, 2023

Scientists are intensifying their call to examine climate change through the lens of health, emphasizing that more people are dying annually from extreme weather events than infectious diseases. The World Health Organization predicts that between 2030 and 2050, climate change will cause around 250,000 additional deaths per year from undernutrition, malaria, diarrhoea, and heat stress. Over half the global population, or more than 3.8 billion people, faced extreme heat between June and August this year, disproportionately affecting women in poverty, leading to maternal and infant mortality and morbidity. Additionally, rising temperatures are linked to increased gender-based violence. Air pollution, labeled a global health emergency by the World Health Organization, impacts human life at every stage, with studies showing its adverse effects from foetal development to mental health. Climate summits have historically focused on energy, but medical professionals are urging global » Read More…