Nepal is demanding $20 million in climate compensation from the world’s biggest economies following devastating floods that killed or left missing more than 6,000 people. Foreign minister Shisir Khanal said the most polluting countries must “wake up” and accept shared responsibility for a disaster that scientists believe was intensified by the climate crisis.
The floods were triggered in late August when a melting glacier partially collapsed, setting off a landslide and flash flooding that swept through Chinese-controlled Tibet and Nepal. More than 1,300 people have been confirmed dead, and over 5,500 remain missing. After 12 days of rescue operations, hopes for survivors have diminished.
Nepal contributes less than 0.1% of global greenhouse gas emissions, yet it is bearing the brunt of a catastrophe linked to warming temperatures. Khanal told the Guardian that the world’s largest economies need to help Nepal, which lacks the resources to recover from such an extreme event on its own.
The disaster underscores the growing threat of compound climate risks, where multiple hazards interact to create cascading impacts. In this case, glacier melt, landslide, and flash flooding combined to devastating effect. Scientists say such events are becoming more frequent and severe as the planet warms, making it essential for vulnerable nations to receive financial and technical support.
The call for compensation comes as international climate negotiations continue to grapple with the issue of loss and damage. Wealthy nations have historically resisted paying for climate-related losses in developing countries, but the scale of the Nepal disaster may add pressure for a new approach. The $20 million request is modest compared to the estimated cost of rebuilding infrastructure, homes, and livelihoods.
Khanal emphasized that the responsibility for climate change lies with industrialized nations that have emitted the most greenhouse gases over time. He argued that they must now step up to help countries like Nepal, which are least responsible but most affected. The foreign minister’s remarks reflect a broader demand from developing nations for climate justice.
As rescue operations wind down, the focus is shifting to recovery and rebuilding. The Nepalese government is assessing the full extent of the damage, while international aid agencies are providing emergency relief. The long-term challenge will be to rebuild in a way that is resilient to future climate shocks, including better early warning systems and infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather.
The disaster has also raised questions about the safety of glacial lakes in the Himalayas, which are expanding as glaciers retreat. Scientists warn that similar events could occur elsewhere in the region, making it imperative for countries to cooperate on monitoring and risk reduction. Nepal’s call for compensation is not just about money; it is a demand for global action to prevent future tragedies.