Flood Waters, Forced Migration, and Humanitarian Crisis: A Comparative Study of the 2022 and 2025 Floods in Pakistan

Abstract

The floods of 2022 and 2025 in Pakistan underscore the state's acute vulnerability to climate-induced disasters, triggering massive displacement and a profound humanitarian crisis. This comparative study examines the impact of these catastrophic events on forced migration, livelihoods, and infrastructure. The 2022 floods submerged one-third of Pakistan's landmass, displacing approximately 33 million people, while the 2025 floods, though less severe, still resulted in significant displacement and loss. Using a qualitative research method approach, this research analyzes the scale and patterns of displacement, infrastructure damage, and humanitarian response mechanisms in both events. Key findings reveal that despite some improvements in disaster response, gaps persist in climate resilience, early warning systems, and support for affected communities. The study recommends the urgent need to integrate climate adaptation strategies, strengthen governance frameworks, and enhance humanitarian coordination to mitigate the impacts of future floods. By comparing these two events, this research provides critical insights into Pakistan's evolving climate risks and offers policy recommendations to enhance resilience and protect vulnerable populations.

Keywords: Rains, floods, displacement, natural disasters, government policies.