Pakistan has the fifth largest population in the world. The country is sorely affected by political and economic volatility as well as natural disasters caused by climate change, both of which have led to food insecurity and chronic poverty. Marginalized groups, especially children, lack proper access to essential services. And Covid-19 has only exacerbated the situation.

On top of that, temperatures have been rising across the country since mid-March and heatwaves have resulted in drought-like conditions (ironically, flooding, like that of this current emergency, is common in areas that suffer from drought because the ground cannot absorb the rain fast enough, causing the rain to run over). In certain parts of the country, agriculture is a main source of income. Without access to water, the livestock suffer and people’s livelihoods are at risk. Islamic Relief has implemented responses to help families affected, and these include access to water; the provision of drought resilient crops and animal fodder for livestock; and health interventions regarding nutrition

Islamic Relief’s Dedication to Pakistan

Islamic Relief has served in Pakistan since 1992, and continues to provide humanitarian and development assistance in the country today.

A few of our interventions include:

• Food aid
• Access to clean and safe water
• Healthcare for blindness and Hepatitis C, as well as neonatal and pediatric care
• Emergency response for the effects of climate change including drought and floods, as well as Covid-19
• Building sustainable livelihoods including innovative microfinancing plans to help low-income families start businesses
• Widow empowerment