Nepal Requests Climate Justice After Deadly Disasters

Nepal has called for climate justice and increased international support to address the devastating impacts of climate change. The country has been hit by six major disasters in the past six years, resulting in significant loss of life, destruction of infrastructure, and economic disruption. At the COP31 conference in Türkiye, Nepal's representatives emphasized the need for countries responsible for high greenhouse gas emissions to take responsibility and support vulnerable nations.

On August 26, 2026, a massive landslide and glacial lake outburst flood occurred in the Langtang Lirung mountain range, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The disaster resulted in at least 1,455 deaths and 5,285 missing persons, with many more affected. The incident highlighted the vulnerability of Nepal's mountainous regions to climate-related disasters. According to scientific research, rising global temperatures have contributed to the increased frequency and severity of such events.

Nepal's economy has suffered significantly due to the disasters, with an estimated 10% decline in agricultural production. The country's infrastructure, including hydropower plants and water-based industries, has also been severely damaged. Dharam Raj Uprety, Nepal's disaster risk reduction and management expert, stated that the country's disaster response capacity is being overwhelmed by the frequency and intensity of recent disasters.

Nepal contributes less than 0.01% to global CO2 emissions but is highly vulnerable to climate change impacts. The country is seeking climate justice and increased international support to address these challenges. Nepal's climate change adaptation plan requires $47.4 billion, while its mitigation efforts require $73 billion. The country is also calling for a special mechanism to protect mountain communities, including early warning systems for disasters.

The United Nations' climate change fund has provided Nepal with $20 million in support, but the country estimates that $4.77 billion is needed to rebuild and recover from the recent disaster. Nepal's representatives at COP31 emphasized the need for developed countries to take responsibility for their emissions and provide adequate support to vulnerable nations.

Nepal's experience highlights the urgent need for global cooperation to address climate change. The country's disasters are a stark reminder of the devastating impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities. As the international community gathers to discuss climate action, Nepal's call for climate justice and support serves as a critical reminder of the need for collective action.

The COP31 conference provides a critical platform for Nepal and other vulnerable countries to advocate for climate justice and support. Nepal's representatives will continue to push for the recognition of mountain communities' specific needs and concerns. The country's experience serves as a testament to the need for urgent and collective action to address the climate crisis.

Key points

• Nepal requests international community to increase support in addressing climate change impacts
• Country seeks climate justice and $47.4 billion for adaptation plan
• Nepal's experience highlights urgent need for global cooperation to address climate change