Nepal's leader says his country is paying the price of climate change

Four weeks after devastating flash floods struck Nepal, Prime Minister Balendra Shah addressed the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to highlight the consequences of climate change on his nation. In his speech, Shah expressed his disappointment at having to discuss death and destruction instead of development, democracy, and peace.

He emphasized that the dangers of climate change know no borders and called for greater international collaboration to protect the Himalayas, which he described as part of the planet's life-support system. Shah proposed the creation of a Himalayan Climate Resilience Mechanism, led by Nepal, India, and China, to share satellite data, expertise, and monitor glacial lakes that pose a threat.

He also advocated for stronger joint early-warning systems and cross-border assistance during disasters. Despite contributing less than 0.1% of global greenhouse gas emissions, Shah acknowledged that Nepal is paying a heavy price for the crisis, stating that they were not to blame but were seeking recommitment to shared responsibility and solidarity.

Shah emphasized the importance of grant-based support rather than loans to help vulnerable nations recover from climate catastrophes, as mere loans or small grants would not suffice. The disaster, triggered by a glacier collapse near the Nepal-China border, led to landslides and flash floods, flattening entire villages and trapping people in hydropower tunnels. Over 6,000 people remain missing, and rescue efforts are ongoing.