An Overview of the Pakistan Climate Change Act 2017 and the Role of Judiciary in Advancing Climate Justice

Abstract

Climate change has emerged as one of the most pressing global challenges, with developing countries like Pakistan being among the most vulnerable to its devastating impacts (Germanwatch, 2022). Pakistan’s response to this crisis was institutionalized through the enactment of the Pakistan Climate Change Act, 2017, which seeks to provide a legislative and administrative framework for climate adaptation and mitigation (Government of Pakistan, 2017). This paper examines the origin, scope, and objectives of the Act while also analyzing the pivotal role of Pakistan’s judiciary in advancing the cause of climate justice. Through qualitative analysis of legal frameworks, policy documents, and judicial decisions, this research highlights how the judiciary has evolved into a proactive institution safeguarding environmental and intergenerational rights (Leghari v. Federation of Pakistan, 2015; Khan, 2020). It concludes that while the legislative framework is comprehensive, its implementation remains weak, and the judiciary continues to serve as a catalyst for accountability and environmental governance in Pakistan (Nasir & Ahmad, 2021).

Keywords: Climate Change, Pakistan Climate Change Act 2017, Climate Justice, Environmental Governance, Judicial Activism, Sustainable Development