CLIMATE CHANGE AS A THREAT MULTIPLIER: IMPLICATIONS FOR PAKISTAN’S NATIONAL SECURITY

Abstract

 This study examines The Impact of Climate Change on Pakistan’s national security, framing climate change as a threat multiplier. The research explores how extreme weather events, water stress, and food insecurity have intensified vulnerabilities in Pakistan’s domestic stability, economic resilience, and regional relations. This research also focused on the growing link between climate change and national security challenges in Pakistan. Using a qualitative research design and an analytical approach analyzed government reports, NDMA data, and security literature. It identifies three key linkages: increased frequency of floods and heatwaves undermining internal security through displacement and civil unrest; glacial melt and erratic monsoons straining Indus water flows, aggravating India-Pakistan water disputes; and climate-induced agricultural losses threatening livelihoods, fueling radicalization in vulnerable districts. Findings indicate that climate impacts have shifted from environmental concerns to direct national security challenges, exposing institutional gaps in disaster response and inter-agency coordination. Climate change is increasing security challenges such as water scarcity, food insecurity, and displacement in Pakistan. It indicated that climate change is a major factor contributing to instability and national security risks. The study concludes that Pakistan must integrate climate adaptation into its security doctrine and advocates a comprehensive climate-security strategy combining early-warning systems, transboundary water diplomacy, and climate-resilient development to safeguard long-term national security, and it must develop effective policies to address climate-related security risks.