Geneva, In a significant interactive dialogue on the sidelines of the 55th session of the UNHCR, speakers underscored the intertwined challenges of conflict and the climate crisis, emphasizing the need for a global, holistic approach to mitigate these intertwined issues. The dialogue focused on the profound impacts of military activities and environmental degradation in regions like Jammu and Kashmir, advocating for concerted international action.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the event, organized by International Action for Peace and Sustainable Development in collaboration with various international organizations, brought together experts, journalists, and activists. Contributors such as Robert Fantina from Canada, Dr. Waqas Ali Kousar, Sheni Hamid from the UK, and Catherine Constantinides from South Africa discussed the dire consequences of military deployments on the environment in conflict zones, with a particular focus on the Indian-occupied territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

The speakers highlighted the adverse effects of the heavy military presence, including habitat loss, deforestation, and pollution, which exacerbate climate change impacts in these areas. They pointed out that the presence of over 900,000 troops in Jammu and Kashmir not only intensifies environmental degradation but also hinders efforts to address climate challenges.

Detailing the environmental damage, participants noted that military operations contribute to deforestation, soil erosion, and pollution, disrupting ecosystems and affecting local weather patterns. The dialogue stressed that ongoing conflict is a major threat to biological diversity and underscored the urgency of addressing glacier melting, water scarcity, and other climate-related issues in the region.

The international community was called upon to recognize the dual threats of conflict and climate crisis as existential dangers to populations in affected regions like Kashmir. Furthermore, the session highlighted the legal impunity enjoyed by Indian forces under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), which complicates the pursuit of justice for the local population.

The discussions in Geneva serve as a call to action for global leaders and organizations to formulate and implement strategies that concurrently address the pressing issues of conflict and climate change, ensuring the protection and prosperity of vulnerable communities.