Climate change is no longer a threat—it is an urgent global reality. A pressing global issue primarily driven by human activities. The change that was meant to happen later on in the world is now knocking on our doorstep. Countries with high exposure to natural disasters, fragile infrastructure, and limited adaptive capacity are at high risk.
Here are the top 10 countries that are especially vulnerable to climate change and are on the verge of vanishing if measures are not taken seriously.
Bangladesh
Bangladesh is located in the low-lying delta region; it faces severe risk from the drastic change in rising sea levels, soil erosion, and seasonal floods. With its growing population and reliance on agriculture, this country is especially facing a threat. Displacement, cyclones, and saltwater intrusion have become increasingly common, making climate resilience and adaptive infrastructure an urgent priority.
Haiti
A country that was already struggling with political instability and poverty now faces a major threat of climate change. Natural disasters, such as floods, droughts, and hurricanes, have amplified climate impacts, particularly on agriculture and public health. For this country to withstand any future environmental shocks, international aid is essential .
Pakistan
Among the top countries that are severely affected by climate change is Pakistan. The ecosystem is suffering; plants and animals are struggling to survive in their natural habitats, which are now disappearing. Due to its economic instability and inflation, this country is unable to provide an ample amount of resources for its people’s sustainability. Water scarcity, displacement, and flooding highlight the vulnerability to changing climate patterns.
Poll
Should developed nations take more responsibility in combating climate change impacts in vulnerable countries?
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To tackle its problem related to climate change, the Philippines requires strict policy implementation and community engagement. The Philippines is prone to typhoons, storms, and rising sea levels, one of the world’s most disaster-prone countries. Coastal living, urban poverty, and reliance on fisheries make adaptation challenging.
Myanmar
Earlier, Myanmar was known for its biologically diverse ecosystem and is now one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change. It faces a mixed set of challenges: tropical cyclones, floods, and heatwaves. Their rural population of 36,965,999 (according to 2021 data) heavily relies on farming and fishing. Myanmar’s rising temperature and coastal erosion add to the already pressing challenges the country faces.
Vietnam
Over the years, Vietnam has undergone significant changes. Its significant economic progression has been promising but now is facing a major threat: climate change. Its rising sea levels, typhoons, and saltwater intrusion put it at high risk of submerging into the water. Its rapid development combined with a fragile ecosystem makes building sustainable climate resilience an urgent task.
Madagascar
According to UN News, it is said to be the 4th most climate change-affected country worldwide. More than a million people in Southern Madagascar are struggling to get enough to eat, just to barely survive. Cyclones and floods, events such as these, threaten biodiversity, agriculture, and food security. The island’s economy is heavily reliant on farming and natural resources. Climate change also poses a threat to its unique ecosystems and endangered wildlife species.
Nepal
Nepal’s mountainous terrain makes it vulnerable to glacial lake outbursts, landslides, and shifting monsoon patterns. Thawing glaciers pose a threat to water resources for millions. Agriculture, tourism, and rural livelihoods suffer. Limited infrastructure and resources hamper the ability of remote communities to adapt, heightening risk from both unexpected and gradual climate events.
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Droughts, unpredictable rainfall, and crop failure are common occurrences in Zimbabwe. Climate change has worsened water shortage and food insecurity, particularly among rural communities. Economic uncertainty constrains resilience and adaptive capacity. Smallholder farmers are the most affected, with demands for sustainable agriculture and climate-smart policies to safeguard livelihoods.
Mozambique
Mozambique is regularly hit by tropical cyclones and storms that disturb infrastructure and displace populations. Flooding impacts agriculture and food security. Mozambique's coastline and river basins are climate-sensitive areas. Low income levels and a lack of emergency preparedness hinder Mozambique from easily recovering from ongoing disaster occurrences.