The Taliban attended an international climate conference in Jalalabad, but few foreign guests showed up, reflecting Afghanistan's isolation.
Afghanistan faces severe climate challenges, with flash floods and droughts causing widespread damage.
The Taliban are integrating climate action into religious teachings, urging mosques to promote environmental protection.
Key quote:
"Just like they invaded our country, they’ve invaded our climate. We must defend our climate, our water, our soil to the same extent we defend ourselves against invasions."
— Lutfullah Khairkhwa, Taliban's deputy higher education minister
Why this matters:
Afghanistan's climate vulnerabilities are worsening without international aid, leading to significant human and environmental costs. The Taliban's approach intertwines religious beliefs with urgent climate actions, reflecting a unique adaptation strategy.
The nation is often the second-largest donor to groups working in poor countries to prevent and treat infectious diseases, and to provide reproductive health services to women.
The storms displaced hundreds of thousands of people, creating a new class of refugees with more reason than ever to migrate north and setting up an early test for the incoming Biden administration.
