Yearly Archives: 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…

SUMMARY of the article “US & South Asia” by Touqir Hussain, published on November 30, 2023

Pakistan’s foreign policy is anchored in its strategic ties with China, which are vital. However, Pakistan also seeks amicable relations with Washington, and concerns persist about the US-China rivalry potentially limiting Pakistan’s associations with either nation. The recent Biden-Xi meeting at the APEC summit may alleviate some apprehensions, as the US seems more focused on curbing China’s military and technological advancements than its economic growth. Global geopolitics is witnessing a broader competition, with many countries aligning with both the US and China to maximize their global engagement. Despite these opportunities, Pakistan lacks the strategy and capacity to benefit fully. Public sentiments toward China are generally positive, while reservations persist against the US. Pakistan acknowledges the risks of overdependence on China and recognizes the necessity of a working relationship with the US, a crucial export destination, foreign investor, and stakeholder in South Asian stability. However, public reservations against the US persist due to historical complexities, » Read More…

SUMMARY of the article “Finding $20 billion annually,” by Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, published on November 30, 2023

As Pakistan actively participates in the climate summit, aiming to showcase its efforts toward climate resilience, the country faces a substantial financial challenge. Despite being a victim of climate change, Pakistan acknowledges the limitations of global climate finance windows to meet its burgeoning needs, estimated at $20 billion annually. Policymakers emphasize a preference for grants and concessional lending but recognize the inadequacy for immediate fiscal requirements. Learning from past experiences, Pakistan is urged to consider domestic resource mobilization, aligning climate considerations with ongoing and future projects. Climate economists argue that increased investment in climate adaptation can expand the fiscal space needed for economic growth. Recognizing the urgent need for reform, the focus should extend beyond macroeconomic stability, addressing issues like functional duplications, stranded assets, and carbon taxes. Water, integral to climate change adaptation, requires essential reforms, including water pricing and taxes on agricultural income. The article proposes partnerships at COP28 to » Read More…

SUMMARY of the article “Climate crossroads,” Editorial, published on November 29, 2023

The upcoming COP28 in the UAE marks a crucial moment for Pakistan, one of the countries most susceptible to climate change, to present its case. Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, accompanied by Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani and Minister for Climate Change Ahmed Irfan Aslam, will advocate for the implementation of the Loss and Damage fund. This fund, established last year based on Pakistan’s successful argument that the impacts within the country have global repercussions, is pivotal for climate-vulnerable nations. The PM will also call on developed countries to fulfill their overdue commitment of $100 billion annually as climate finance for developing nations. Having endured the severe consequences of climate-induced disasters, including last year’s devastating floods affecting 33 million people, Pakistan emphasizes the disproportionate impact on developing nations despite their minimal contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions. The National Adaptation Plan (NAP) is a comprehensive strategy aimed at mitigating these impacts, but the financial gap is substantial, with the World Bank estimating that Pakistan needs $348 billion by 2030 to maintain resilience. The article highlights the need for a radical » Read More…

 SUMMARY of the article “Climate resilience,” Editorial, published on November 28, 2023

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has advised Pakistan to utilize its resources more effectively and efficiently to build climate-resilient infrastructure, emphasizing the need to strengthen the country’s capacity to attract climate finance. Pakistan, being highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, seeks international support to achieve its climate finance targets. The IMF suggests that formulating robust public investment policies aligned with national climate adaptation and mitigation goals is crucial. The Fund envisions the next budget as a “turning point” for planning mechanisms and investment portfolios focused on climate adaptation. Currently, Pakistan faces challenges with low capital stock and the efficiency of public investment. The IMF calls for enhanced transparency regarding climate-related actions in » Read More…