As the unrelenting march of climate change continues to wreak havoc on our planet, it is crucial that we recognize the fundamental role of young people in shaping our response to this existential crisis. In Pakistan, where the impacts of climate change are deeply felt, exploiting the energy and passion of our young people is both an obligation as well as an ethical duty. Just imagine the overwhelming floods that devastate our communities with increasing frequency, displacing families, destroying livelihoods, and aggravating poverty. The young people of Pakistan, inheriting a world on the brink of environmental collapse, are no longer content to sit idly while their future is swept away by rising waters.
Some may argue that they are ill-equipped to tackle such a multifaceted and daunting challenge. However, this perspective fails to identify the power of youth-led movements that have already initiated transformative change around the world. A strong way forward begins with providing our children with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to become leaders in the fight against climate change. This includes incorporating climate education into school curricula, creating opportunities for youth engagement in climate policy development, and supporting youth-led initiatives that promote sustainable practices and resilience-building efforts.
Tania Shahjahan
Kamber Ali Khan