Ljubljana:Participants at a recent program emphasized that determining responsibility for climate-induced loss and damage is more crucial than merely calculating the extent of losses during disasters.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the event was held in the context of the devastating floods in the Bhotekoshi-Trishuli river system and explored climate justice from various perspectives, highlighting its global significance. Experts at the gathering agreed that these floods were among Nepal’s most severe disasters, attributing them to climate change.
The disaster, referred to as the ‘Himalayan tsunami,’ has caused physical damage estimated at Rs 400 billion. However, the psychological and emotional impacts are vast and difficult to measure. Kamala Panthi, Chairperson of Sancharika Samuha Nepal, noted that the impacts of climate change affect communities disproportionately, especially affecting women, daily wage earners, and marginalized groups. She urged for research to ensure justice for those affected by the Bhotekoshi-Trishuli floods.
Manika Shrestha, coordinator of Nepal Mahila Ekata Samaj, stressed that the needs of local communities should be central to climate justice campaigns. Journalists at the event called for civil society organizations to engage with disaster survivors sensitively to avoid re-traumatization, a vital aspect of climate justice.
Ganesh Dhami from Youth Advocacy Nepal highlighted the geopolitical aspects of climate change, emphasizing the need to protect marginalized communities’ socio-economic rights. Anish Raj Shrestha from ActionAid International Nepal stated that their climate justice campaign focuses on justice for affected communities, adequate financing for climate justice, and holding polluters accountable. Rahul Dewan from ActionAid also stressed the importance of conserving common resources and considering non-economic losses.
The program, organized by ActionAid Nepal, Youth Advocacy Nepal, NMES, and Makwanpur Mahila Utthan Samaj, concluded with a call for accurate data collection post-disasters and maintaining ethical media practices. Additionally, a Mass Diyo Vigil is set for this Friday at Basantapur Durbar Area to support families affected by the recent floods.