By Naila Altaf Kayani
GENEVA (Parliament Times) – A Kashmir delegation attending the 55th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva met and discussed impacts of the substantial military presence in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) region on its climate and the vulnerability of displaced populations with renowned environmentalist and human rights defender, Ms Catherine Constantinides.
During the meeting, Ms Constantinides expressed her concern over the environmental consequences of a significant military presence in IIOJK and emphasized the importance of addressing the nexus between climate and conflict.
“The world is facing a climate emergency and displaced people bear the brunt of extreme weather patterns. It’s crucial to discuss the impact on vulnerable communities,” she said.
Recalling her firsthand experience staying with a family in Kashmir, she highlighted the risks faced by the residents, especially with melting glaciers.
She underscored that the people of Kashmir not only require protection from military actions but also deserve climatic justice.
“Occupied Kashmir is an example of the climatic justice impact that the people face,” she remarked.
Assuring continued support for Kashmiris amid the climate emergency, Ms Constantinides underlined the need for dialogue between India and Pakistan on climate issues in Jammu and Kashmir, with Kashmiris part of the proposed process.
In a conversation with Altaf Hussain Wani, a senior Hurriyat leader and head of the delegation, Ms Constantinides called for accountability for India and other occupying forces globally.
She condemned human rights violations, while mentioning the plight of the people of Western Sahara and expressing solidarity with Palestinians facing genocide and oppression by Israeli forces.
The Kashmir delegation, attending the UNHRC session, aims to draw attention to the human rights situation in the region and advocate for climate considerations in ongoing geopolitical discussions.
