While in many countries, climate change is still considered to be a future threat, for others it is a reality they are already facing. This is the case in Pakistan, which is particularly affected by periods of drought, as well as floods, partly caused by ice melt in the Himalayas. The response to these calamities by the Pakistani State has been weak, which has recently prompted a farmer to seek compensation by taking the government to court.

This initiative by a single citizen has had unexpected results. Thus, after the successful case against the Dutch government last June (read related article), it is now the turn of the Pakistani courts to set a new precedent in the area of climate justice. The judge ruled that despite the announcements made in its climate action plan in 2012, the government had failed to take appropriate measures. The Lahore High Court also ordered the creation of a Climate Council to oversee that the government fulfils its commitments and that effective climate change mitigation and adaptation measures are taken. The Council, consisting of representatives from civil society, will be headed by an environment lawyer.

While the creation of this Council is an encouraging development, there are questions about its real impact. As with many countries, climate change seems to have been put on the back burner in Pakistani daily politics, and, crucially, the State does not have the necessary means to effectively tackle climate change. However, with only a few weeks to go until the COP21, this shows again how climate change issues have become increasingly prominent over the past few years.

It also shows that as an individual, it is possible to be heard and to initiate change. This grassroots mobilisation, which has been springing up around the globe, must continue to send a clear message to the world leaders. We need to take urgent action, and the agreement which will result from the COP21 will be a powerful first step.

Emilie Chavaroche, Environment Editor