Evaluating Pakistan’s Legal Framework for Climate Justice: Normative Gaps and Reform Opportunities

Abstract

Pakistan’s acute vulnerability to climate change—manifested in glacial retreat, rising temperatures, water scarcity, and widespread climate-induced displacement—demands a critical examination of its climate governance and legal response. This study explores the country’s geographic and socio-political exposure to climate risks and investigates the effectiveness of its existing legal frameworks in promoting climate justice. Despite being a signatory to key international agreements, Pakistan continues to face challenges in translating policy commitments into inclusive and equitable outcomes. Using a qualitative methodology grounded in doctrinal legal analysis and policy review, the study evaluates national instruments such as the Pakistan Climate Change Act (2017) and the National Climate Change Policy (2021), alongside judicial interventions by the Supreme Court. Findings reveal systemic issues including institutional fragmentation, weak enforcement capacity, underutilization of climate finance mechanisms, and limited representation of vulnerable communities in decision-making. The judiciary’s proactive role in interpreting the constitutional right to a healthy environment is highlighted as a key enabler of climate justice. Nevertheless, substantial gaps persist between policy articulation and practical implementation. The research identifies opportunities to strengthen climate governance by institutionalizing participation, enhancing legal accountability, and operationalizing financial and institutional support mechanisms. By bridging these gaps, Pakistan can advance a more just, inclusive, and resilient response to climate change, setting a precedent for similar nations in the Global South. This article concludes with practical recommendations for legal reform, improved institutional coordination, and increased grassroots engagement to achieve climate justice.