South Asia's Climate Challenges and Power DynamicsCEFR B1
26 Nov 2025
Adapted from Qian Sun, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Aqeel Ahmed Zia, Unsplash
AI-assisted adaptation of the original article, simplified for language learners.
South Asia is navigating urgent climate challenges and energy shortages, propelling countries like Pakistan and Nepal to seek green technologies and climate finance for rebuilding energy systems. For instance, catastrophic floods in Pakistan in 2022 displaced an enormous number of people and significantly damaged the economy. Similarly, in Nepal, melting glaciers threaten water supplies and increase risks of flooding.
As these nations pursue climate finance to adapt to changes, they encounter a complicated landscape shaped by policies established in wealthier nations. Despite having presented successful initiatives like the Delta Blue Carbon Project, local communities often find themselves excluded from decision-making processes, raising concerns about equity and transparency.
The significant struggle now lies in ensuring that climate finance not only provides necessary support but also respects the needs and rights of the affected communities, avoiding the reinforcement of existing inequalities in climate governance.
Difficult words
- navigate — to find a way through a difficult situationnavigating
- urgent — very important and needing immediate attention
- catastrophic — causing serious damage or suffering
- displace — to force people to leave their homesdisplaced
- significantly — in a way that is important or meaningful
- equity — fairness or justice in treatment or opportunities
- transparency — openness and clarity in processes and decisions
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How can local communities be included in decision-making for climate finance?
- What measures can be taken to ensure equity in climate governance?
- How do natural disasters affect economic stability in developing countries?
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