akistan, a nation with a rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, stands at the crossroads of adversity and resilience. The country is one of the world’s most disaster-prone jurisdictions.

The challenges it faces, extends beyond geological and climate turmoil. The list includes food shortages, chronic malnutrition and the prolonged presence of refugee populations.

Pakistan’s geographical location places it in the path of various natural disasters, from earthquakes to floods and recurrent droughts. The year 2022 brought one of the most severe monsoon seasons since 1961, wreaking havoc across the country.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department reported that Sindh and Balochistan experienced a rainfall surplus of 600-700 percent compared to typical years. The ensuing floods impacted over 33 million people across 94 districts, leading to the loss of 1,739 lives. Sindh and Balochistan bore the brunt of this calamity.

Among those affected, 20.6 million people, including 9.6 million children, were in dire need of humanitarian assistance. The devastation was particularly hard in the most vulnerable districts, already facing various deprivations.

These natural disasters have placed an enormous strain on Pakistan’s healthcare infrastructure. Malnutrition and limited access to clean water, sanitation and medical services have left the most marginalised communities struggling with compromised health. Earlier, the Covid-19 pandemic had stretched the country’s resources to their limits.

In the aftermath of the 2022 floods, Pakistan faces a nutrition crisis. The pre-existing high rates of malnutrition in flood-affected regions have been further aggravated, posing a grave threat to the well-being of the population.

As of June 2023, an alarming 10.5 million people residing in 43 districts across Pakistan faced acute food insecurity. This nutrition crisis is a ticking time bomb that demands immediate attention and comprehensive interventions.

For longer than four decades, Pakistan has been a steadfast host to a large number of Afghan refugees, earning it the status of one of the largest recipients of refugees worldwide. Providing protection and basic lifesaving services to the most vulnerable Afghans remains a paramount concern.

As of June 2023, an alarming 10.5 million people residing in 43 districts across Pakistan are grappling with acute food insecurity. The nutrition crisis is a ticking time bomb that demands immediate attention and comprehensive interventions.

Undocumented refugees, in particular, have limited access to employment opportunities and essential services. The presence of this large refugee population has not only strained Pakistan’s resources but also highlighted the importance of international cooperation and assistance in managing protracted refugee situations.

The confluence of recurring natural disasters, the complex phenomenon of climate change and traditional governance structures has created a formidable challenge for Pakistan. The frequency and intensity of natural disasters have increased, making many communities perpetually vulnerable.

Climate change, a global crisis, has further exacerbated these challenges. It demands innovative solutions that are both smart and sustainable. In this ever-evolving world, where all nations have their own political and environmental crises to deal with, Pakistan stands at a critical juncture.

To navigate this intricate web of crises, Pakistan must adopt a holistic approach that includes systems thinking, indigenous knowledge and consideration for diversity. A systems thinking approach acknowledges the connectedness of various issues, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of complex problems.

Pakistan can leverage its indigenous knowledge base, drawing upon centuries of wisdom in dealing with environmental challenges, to inform modern strategies for resilience.

Gender and diversity considerations must be integrated into all aspects of disaster preparedness, response and recovery. Empowering women and marginalised groups not only enhances their resilience but also strengthens the community’s ability to withstand and recover from crises.

Pakistan’s enduring struggle with natural disasters, malnutrition and the refugee crisis paints a vivid picture of resilience in the face of adversity. The nation’s unique geographical position, combined with the effects of climate change, has created a complex web of challenges. However, this is also an opportunity for Pakistan to demonstrate its capacity for innovation and adaptability.

It is imperative that Pakistan invest in sustainable solutions that encompass systems thinking, indigenous knowledge, and a commitment to gender and diversity considerations. In this endeavour, international cooperation and assistance are essential. By addressing these crises with creativity, compassion, and cooperation, Pakistan can chart a path towards a more resilient and prosperous future, not only for itself but for the entire region.

The writer is country director at International Rescue Committee