CLIMATE-INDUCED MIGRATION IN PAKISTAN: AN EMERGING CRISIS

Abstract

Climate-induced migration has become one of the most severe non-conventional challenges to the national security of Pakistan. As a geographically exposed state, Pakistan is exposed to catastrophic climate events like floods, droughts, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), and sea-level rise, which have caused extensive internal displacement. These climate disruptions not only displace populations but also put extreme pressure on already weak urban infrastructure, water supplies, food systems, and state institutions. This research investigates the scale of climate-driven migration in Pakistan and analyzes how such migration processes strengthen socio-political tensions, economic disparities, and security weaknesses across the country. The thesis utilizes qualitative research and engages with the Regional Security Complex Theory (RSCT) to comprehend how internal climate-induced displacement is a conflict multiplier and source of insecurity. It emphasizes the gendered impact of migration, the rural-urban divide, and institutional inefficiencies in managing environmental problems. Moreover, the study pinpoints essential gaps in national planning and proposes holistic policy suggestions to incorporate climate migration into security and development models. By positioning climate-related migration as an issue of national security, this research adds to the larger debate on climate resilience, sustainable governance, and human security in Pakistan.