The Taliban government in Afghanistan has initiated its first discussions with the United Nations, donors, and non-governmental organizations regarding the implications of climate change in the conflict-stricken nation. Afghanistan ranks among the countries least equipped to confront the consequences of climate change, which manifest in extreme weather events and disruptions to natural ecosystems. Despite international hesitancy in supporting the Taliban regime, the Norwegian Afghanistan Committee (NAC) co-hosted a three-day dialogue, culminating on Tuesday, in Kabul.
The discussions encompassed representatives from universities, diplomatic missions, UN agencies, donors, and grassroots members of Afghan society. All parties acknowledged the necessity for “individual and collective action” both within and beyond Afghanistan to address the challenges posed by climate change. The talks also involved government ministries pledging their full support for national and international organizations working to combat climate change and reduce its impact in Afghanistan.
International opinion has been split over how to deal with the Taliban authorities. Some advocate for isolating the regime until it eases restrictions on women and girls, while others support engaging on less controversial subjects that could benefit the population. Terje Watterdal, NAC’s country director, emphasized the importance of de-politicizing key development issues such as climate change. To ensure diverse perspectives, the talks ensured an equal representation of men and women.
Climate change plays a crucial role in the livelihoods of Afghans, with around 80% of the country’s population relying on agriculture for income. Despite contributing only 0.06% of global greenhouse gas emissions, Afghanistan ranks sixth among nations most vulnerable to climate change. The country has witnessed a temperature increase of 1.8 Celsius (35.2 Fahrenheit) since 1950, exceeding the global average of 1.5C (34.7F). Recent heavy rainfall in Afghanistan, following an unusually dry winter, claimed over 100 lives.
Zainul Abideen Abid, Deputy Director of the National Environmental Protection Agency of Afghanistan, stressed the priority of climate change management and called for practical steps from UN agencies and additional funding. He also requested Afghanistan’s inclusion in the upcoming COP29 summit in November.
