Musadik Malik urges global focus on climate justice and resilient housing at WUF13

WEB DESK: Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Musadik Malik, has urged the international community to prioritise climate justice and resilient housing, warning that vulnerable populations continue to suffer disproportionately despite contributing the least to global emissions.

Speaking at the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, Azerbaijan, the minister highlighted the escalating challenges posed by climate change, urban inequality, poverty, and housing injustice, particularly for marginalised communities.

Delivering Pakistan’s national ministerial statement at the forum held under the theme “Housing the World: Safe and Resilient Cities and Communities” Malik argued that climate-resilient housing is fundamentally an issue of justice.

He noted that whilst it could take generations for a family to escape poverty, a single natural disaster could instantly push them back into deprivation and vulnerability.

Redefining housing as a fundamental right

Addressing a high-level dialogue titled “The Climate-Housing Nexus: Can We Scale Climate Resilient Housing Without Deepening Inequality or Displacement?” , Malik underscored the undeniable link between environmental degradation, poverty, and housing insecurity.

He drew upon the devastating impacts of recent floods and other climate-induced disasters in Pakistan, citing tragic loss of lives, mass displacement, and severe economic damage.

The minister firmly asserted that affordable housing should be recognised globally as a basic human right rather than being treated merely as a welfare measure.

Furthermore, during a session focused on “NDC 3.0: Urban Law and Multi-Level Governance to Enable Climate Commitments” , he stressed the vital importance of strengthening urban governance frameworks and improving institutional coordination across all tiers of government to successfully withstand future climate shocks.

Strengthening regional partnerships and energy links

On the sidelines of the global summit, the federal minister held a productive bilateral meeting with Azerbaijan's Minister of Energy, Parviz Shahbazov.

The two leaders engaged in detailed discussions regarding regional energy cooperation, climate resilience, and sustainable development initiatives.

The meeting highlighted a mutual commitment to exploring fresh avenues for enhanced bilateral collaboration between Pakistan and Azerbaijan.

By linking local urban reform with stronger international alliances, Pakistan continues to position itself at the forefront of advocacy for developing nations bearing the brunt of the global climate crisis.

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