The much-anticipated 26th Constitutional Amendment Bill, which introduces 22 amendments to the Constitution of Pakistan (1973), marks a significant milestone by recognizing the right to a clean and healthy environment as a fundamental right for all citizens. This amendment provides a legal framework for citizens to demand governmental accountability on environmental issues, aligning Pakistan with global efforts to promote sustainability and environmental justice.
The Constitution of Pakistan already guarantees several fundamental rights, such as the right to life and liberty, protection from unlawful arrest, and religious freedom. With the inclusion of environmental protection, the amendment enables citizens to advocate for safeguarding the environment, echoing the global trend in over 150 countries that have acknowledged environmental rights through constitutions, legal frameworks, or international treaties.
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In 2021, the United Nations Human Rights Council passed a landmark resolution affirming that a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment is a human right. This aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly goals like “good health and well-being” (Goal 3), “clean water and sanitation” (Goal 6), and “climate action” (Goal 13). Pakistan’s latest constitutional reforms reflect a commitment to addressing climate change and its impacts.
Climate change has already affected Pakistan’s geography and ecosystems. Its mountainous regions are vulnerable to glacial melt, leading to increased flooding, while erratic monsoon patterns threaten the agricultural backbone of the country. Desert areas like Thar are facing rising temperatures and severe water scarcity, while coastal areas are grappling with rising sea levels and biodiversity loss.
The amendment comes at a time when Pakistan is seeking between $1.5 to $2 billion from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to address the aftermath of the 2022 floods, which submerged two-thirds of the country. These negotiations are crucial as Pakistan seeks to recover financially and build climate resilience.
Rapid urbanization, pollution, and biodiversity loss are ongoing challenges, with smog becoming a seasonal issue in cities like Karachi and Lahore. Experts are calling for pro-people and pro-nature policies, including stricter environmental regulations, public awareness campaigns, sustainable agricultural practices, and afforestation projects to combat air pollution.
Additionally, improving waste management systems, including segregation and recycling, will be crucial in reducing plastic pollution. International cooperation and funding are essential for Pakistan, a developing nation, to implement climate adaptation projects.
Recognizing the right to a clean and healthy environment is a significant step toward improving the quality of life for all Pakistanis and supporting sustainable development for future generations.
