From kings to presidents, CEOs to non-profit bosses, many of the world’s most influential individuals have gathered in Dubai for COP28, the latest edition of the annual United Nations climate conference.
Like every such summit, the Dubai conclave, too, has seen criticism, though a loss and damages fund was launched on the first day to support poorer nations that have done little to contribute to climate change yet bear some of its harshest consequences.
Still, the annual UN summits have often been described as talk shops that do little to fundamentally improve the planet’s chances of surviving warming temperatures, or to ensure climate justice.
Meanwhile, communities around the world — and especially in the Global South — are at work trying to shield future generations from the devastating effects of climate change.
Here are some initiatives and movements that keep the needs of local communities in mind when working to address climate change and advocate against climate injustice.
Karachi Bachao Tehreek – Karachi, Pakistan
Pakistan’s largest urban centre, Karachi, was ravaged by floods in August 2020. As a response, the government and disaster management authority began a large-scale anti-encroachment drive, demolishing financially disadvantaged settlements, ostensibly to clear the city’s natural stormwater drains. This resulted in heavy urban displacement, affecting many working-class families in the city.
A group of activists in Karachi which advocated against the demolitions came together as a movement under the name Karachi Bachao Tehreek (KBT), Urdu for Save Karachi Movement. As a response to the crisis, KBT conducted on-ground surveys of those affected by demolitions to assess their experiences and expectations for the future. Additionally, the group organised public hearings across Karachi’s affected neighbourhoods to gather feedback about the government’s resettlement plan. KBT creates public awareness about the issue and helps pressure authorities by organising marches and rallies protesting against climate injustices.
Waiting for answers @murtazawahab1 @MuradAliShahPPP @SindhGovt1 #MuhallaBanaoKarachiBachao #WahidBanaoKarachiBachao #MujahidBanaoKarachiBachao https://t.co/a3uRUwVCU5 pic.twitter.com/Q4hwtMSAuP
— Karachi Bachao Tehreek (@StopEvictionKHI) November 22, 2023
Save Aru – Aru Islands, Indonesia
Aru Islands are a forested archipelago in Indonesia. A company called the Menara Group received government approval to…