Climate change is no longer a distant issue, it’s here, and its effects are hitting hard. Pakistan, with its vulnerable ecosystems and rural communities, is among the countries most affected.
Every year, Pakistan faces extreme weather events such as floods, heatwaves and droughts. The impact is devastating, especially for rural areas that rely on farming and livestock. The deadly 2022 floods showed just how fragile these communities are and highlighted the need for more focus on disaster preparedness and climate resilience.
While climate change affects everyone, the most vulnerable are hardest hit — particularly women, children, and the elderly. In Pakistan, where 67% of the population is under 30, it’s alarming that young people aren’t more involved in climate policy discussions. As the global conversation on climate change takes centre stage, with leaders gathering at COP29, the focus on youth involvement is more important than ever. It’s not enough to just listen to young people’s concerns, young people themselves need to be leading the charge.
That’s where initiatives like Islamic Relief Pakistan’s VOCAL (Voices Organized for Climate Change Advocacy and Lobbying) come in. VOCAL is empowering young people, especially girls from disadvantaged areas, to take an active role in fighting climate change in Pakistan. By setting up ‘climate clubs’, offering training on resilience, and advocating for sustainable solutions, the programme equips young people with the knowledge and tools to take action locally, nationally, and globally.
Youth leading the way
The climate clubs formed through VOCAL are a clear example of what young people can achieve when given the opportunity. These youth-led groups are tackling environmental challenges in their communities with initiatives like tree-planting, waste management, and climate education in schools.
Their efforts are changing not only their local environment but also how people think about climate action. As one member, Huzaina, said: “We don’t want to wait for others to solve the climate crisis for us. We are already taking action, and we want to be part of the solutions discussed at platforms like COP29.”
Young people bring fresh ideas, energy, and determination to the table. For many, this isn’t just about being innovative — it’s about survival. Campaigns such as Adopt a Tree, run in partnership with Pakistan’s Forest & Wildlife Department, are helping to combat drought and promote environmental care. With slogans like Plant a Tree, Secure a Future, students are becoming advocates for urban forestry and are directly contributing to climate resilience efforts.
In a country like Pakistan, where climate change is already having a severe impact, young people are proving they have the drive and creativity to lead the way toward a more sustainable future.
As one young climate activist, Syed, said: “We are the generation that will feel the full weight of climate change, but we are also the generation that can turn the tide.” It’s a powerful reminder that the fight for our planet’s future is in the hands of the young, and they’re ready to lead.
Please help Islamic Relief continue our vital work supporting communities to adapt to the changing climate and advocate for themselves. Donate now.
