CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE POLITICAL ECONOMY OF PAKISTAN: A RESOURCE SCARCITY AND CONFLICT PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Pakistan faces a formidable challenge in the form of climate change. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events are wreaking havoc on its political economy.  This research, therefore, discusses in multifaceted dimensions the political-economic effects of climate change, trying to provide an explanation of how changes in the environment turn into economic hardship, scarcity of resources, and possible political turmoil. The paper highlights both environmental implications on main resources like water and land. It will also explore economic consequences on agriculture, infrastructure, and overall economic stability. Additionally, the study considers the potential for political conflict due to resource scarcity and social unrest due to the onset of disasters in the climate. Besides, it will evaluate the effectiveness of existing adaptation strategies and explore the potential for international cooperation. In a nutshell, this research will attempt to provide a holistic understanding of the manners through which climate change interacts with the political economy of Pakistan. It identifies some key challenges and possible solutions that may inform effective policy responses at both national and international levels, opening the ways for a more sustainable and resilient future for Pakistan.