Nepal seeks $20 million climate compensation from major polluters after deadly floods

Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal told the Guardian that the world’s largest economies must assist Nepal, which accounts for less than 0.1 % of global greenhouse‑gas emissions, after the country suffered catastrophic floods in late August. Nepal is seeking $20 million in climate compensation, arguing that the disaster—triggered by the partial collapse of a melting glacier that caused a landslide and flash flooding across Chinese‑controlled Tibet and Nepal—was exacerbated by the climate crisis. The floods have killed more than 1,300 people and left over 5,500 missing, with rescue operations now entering their twelfth day and prospects for survivors dwindling.

Khanal appealed to the most polluting nations to “wake up” and accept shared responsibility for the tragedy, which has claimed the lives or caused the disappearance of more than 6,000 individuals. Scientists concur that climate change contributed to the extreme weather events that precipitated the disaster. The compensation request underscores Nepal’s call for international solidarity and accountability as it confronts the humanitarian and environmental fallout of the floods.