Karachi: International Rescue Committee (IRC) in collaboration with National Commission on Rights of Child (NCRC) hosted multi-stakeholder national consultation on how climate change is impacting children of Pakistan in commemoration of Universal Children’s Day 2023, under global theme of ‘For every child, Every Right’.

Ayesha Raza Farooq Chairperson NCRC said that impact of climate change on children is matter that demands our collective attention and today’s consultation provides platform for us to engage in meaningful dialogue, share insights and develop strategies that will resonate beyond this room.

Guest of Honour Khalil George-caretaker Minister for Human Rights in his keynote speech opined that Universal Children’s Day holds particular significance for Pakistan as it provides an opportunity to reflect on progress made in ensuring rights and well-being of every child. Our commitment to rights of unregistered children must go beyond rhetoric. It requires concrete actions, innovative policies and collaborative efforts from all stakeholders involved.

Inousa Kabore, Deputy Representative UNCIEF in observed that climate change causes health and wellbeing of children to be affected, especially those living in high-risk areas of country. Children are brunt of climate change, every year effect has been seen to double. Disrupting education, malnutrition, water borne diseases. Over 3 million children are street vendors in Pakistan and number of out of school children in Pakistan is estimated at 28 million.

Highlight of national consultation was thriving panel discussion on ‘Inclusion, for every child amidst climate impact in Pakistan.’ Panel discussion was moderated by prominent child rights expert Arshad Mahmood and featured eminent speakers such as Gohar Khan (Chief Projects Officer NADRA), Izza Farrakh (Senior Education Specialist World Bank) and Dr Naeem Zafar (Mental Health and Child Rights Expert).

Shabnam Baloch Country Director IRC-Pakistan observed, “Collaboration between International Rescue Committee and National Commission on the Rights of Child demonstrates united effort to address pressing issues faced by children of Pakistan and work towards effective solutions that are inclusive and sustainable.”

On World Children’s Day we’re making space for children and young people to raise their voices on issues that matter to them. By prioritising children’s rights and participation, we can help to build better future for all.

Panelists deliberated upon impending impact of climate change on child protection, education and psychosocial health of children in Pakistan. Consultation highlighted challenges faced by children affected by climate change, focusing on the aftermath of floods in 2022. Discussions were centered on impact on children’s access to food, water, shelter and education, recognising that these environmental hazards not only hinder these essential needs but also reduce children’s resilience and adaptive capacity. Panel noted that is Pakistan is one of countries with low rates of birth registration (despite recent progress)-PDHS 2017-18 indicate that that only 42 percent of children aged under five had their births registered. It is permanent and official record of child’s existence and provides legal recognition of that child’s identity. Not only is birth registration fundamental human right, it also helps ensure that children’s other rights are upheld.

Published in The Daily National Courier, November, 17 2023

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