The World Food Forum 2024 is a pivotal event addressing the intertwined challenges of food security and climate change. This year, Ali Raza Khan is honored to join global leaders, experts, and advocates at the FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy, with a primary focus on Global Youth Action.
Ali Raza Khan’s journey in this field has been deeply influenced by his academic background and professional experiences. Holding a Master’s degree in Food Safety and Quality Management from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad and a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture from the University of Agriculture Multan, he has dedicated his career to addressing the critical issues of food security and climate change, especially as they affect marginalized communities in Pakistan.
As a member of civil society, Ali Raza Khan’s work involves raising awareness and advocating for the rights and needs of minorities affected by these global challenges. The World Food Forum 2024 provides an unparalleled platform to highlight the unique struggles and innovative solutions emerging from these communities.
At the conference, Ali Raza Khan will share insights from his initiatives aimed at combating food insecurity and enhancing climate resilience for minorities in Pakistan. These initiatives have been instrumental in bringing to light the pressing issues faced by these communities and in promoting sustainable practices that can be replicated globally.
The forum’s emphasis on Global Youth Action aligns perfectly with Ali Raza Khan’s mission to empower the younger generation, equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to drive meaningful change. By fostering a collaborative environment, the World Food Forum 2024 promises to be a transformative experience, paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Ali Raza Khan looks forward to engaging with like-minded individuals and organizations, sharing stories of resilience, and working together to build solutions that leave no one behind. Follow his journey at the World Food Forum 2024 and join him in advocating for a world where food security and climate resilience are realities for all.
I am thrilled to announce that I have been invited to the prestigious FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy, to attend the international conference, World Food Forum 2024. It’s an incredible honor to participate in this significant event, particularly focusing on Global Youth Action, a cause close to my heart.
As a dedicated member of civil society, my work primarily revolves around food security and climate issues that adversely affect minorities in Pakistan and across the globe. This invitation is a testament to the relentless efforts and initiatives aimed at raising awareness and amplifying the voices of those impacted by these critical issues.
With a Master’s degree in Food Safety and Quality Management from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad and a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture from the University of Agriculture Multan, I have spent years honing my skills and knowledge in this field. My professional journey has been driven by a passion for advocating change and fostering solutions that address the urgent needs of food security and climate resilience.
This conference presents a unique opportunity to engage with global leaders, share insights, and collaborate on strategies that can make a tangible difference. I am excited to bring the perspectives and challenges faced by minorities in Pakistan to the global stage, ensuring that their voices are heard and considered in the dialogue for sustainable solutions.
Stay tuned for updates from the World Food Forum 2024. Together, we can drive the change needed to build a more secure and resilient future for all.
Munich, Germany – At the AIDS 2024 conference, Ali Raza Khan, founder of Pride Pakistan, delivered a compelling speech on the intersection of climate change and its effects on people living with HIV, gay men, and men who have sex with men (MSM). His presentation highlighted the severe impacts of climate change on these vulnerable communities, particularly in Pakistan.
The Devastating Effects of Floods in South Punjab
In 2024, more than 100 people have died due to flood-related atrocities in Pakistan. Ali Raza Khan, hailing from South Punjab, one of the most affected regions, shared his personal experiences and the struggles faced by his community. He emphasized that the gay community members in Pakistan are significantly impacted by the changing climate, including extreme heat, heavy rainfall, and increased water pollution.
Watch The Recording Below
Ali Raza Khan founder Pride Pakistan spoke about climate and effect on people living with HIV, gays and men having sex with men during the AIDS 2024 conference in Munich.
Community Insights and Statistics
Khan presented data from studies conducted by Pride Pakistan, available on their website PridePakistan.org. He focused on the flood aspects, revealing that in the past five years, 100% of the community members surveyed reported being affected by flooding or heavy rainfall. This statistic underscores the pervasive nature of climate-related challenges in the region.
When asked about their concerns regarding climate change, 82% of the community members expressed that they believe climate change has a significant impact on their lives. Only 17% did not consider it a priority. Furthermore, 100% of the respondents acknowledged that climate change poses a threat to their health and well-being.
Beyond Climate: Additional Challenges
Khan also highlighted other pressing issues in Pakistan, such as terrorist activities and conflicts in regions like Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), which cover more than 70% of Pakistan’s geographical area. These areas have limited healthcare services, exacerbating the struggles faced by the communities. For instance, in Balochistan, only one community-based organization serves a vast area, and access to services is further hindered by floods and security issues.
Resilience and Adaptation
Despite these challenges, the community continues to show resilience. In Pakistan, where gay men and MSM are criminalized, community services and healthcare remain crucial. Young people are actively engaged in mitigation measures, such as plantation projects, to counter the impacts of climate change. The community is also collaborating with stakeholders to ensure inclusive efforts for those living with HIV, gay men, and MSM.
Khan concluded his speech by emphasizing the need for continued adaptation to the changing climate. He called for greater support and collaboration to address the multifaceted challenges faced by these vulnerable communities.
Ali Raza Khan’s speech at the AIDS 2024 conference serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to address climate change and its disproportionate impact on marginalized communities. His insights highlight the resilience and determination of these communities in the face of adversity. For more detailed information and studies, visit AliRazaKhan.com and PridePakistan.org.
Civil society has always been at the center of emergencies ensuring that their communities are able to overcome the challenges and impacts that are left behind when emergencies happen. The communities pull their resources together to address these issues and this is not an event rather a process.
HIGHLIGHTS
Whether it is floods in Pakistan, violence, unrest and natural calamities in Haiti, immigrants and refugees in Europe, UK, Columbia and Peru; the communities of people most affected come together to address the challenges head on. “Governments come and go but civil society is always there to work with communities,” shared Mary Ann Torres of ICASO who took the participants through Venezuela advocacy for Global Fund grant. As a country that did not fit what was required to get funded by the Global Fund, the civil society members organised and advocated relentlessly sharing their true lived realities and this saw the country become a recipient of the fund. “The location might be different but the experiences the same. If organisations and communities can share with each other, to learn from each other instead of reinventing the wheel, a lot can be achieved.” Shared Judy Otti of the African Advocacy Foundation. “It is important to understand emergencies last longer and have lasting impact…More resources are needed to ensure that the communities are not left on their own to figure it out.” said Mary Ann Torres
CRITICAL ASSESSMENT
Time and time again, civil society picks up the pieces of what is left of their communities after an emergency. When the rest of the world moves on to focus on the country and the next issue, they are the ones who have to figure out how to function in the new normal. For this to be possible and continue, there is need to invest continuously in these efforts.
Munich, Germany – The AIDS 2024 conference will feature a pivotal session titled “From Ruin to Resilience: Harnessing Community Strength in the Face of Natural Disasters,” highlighting the critical intersection of climate change and public health. This scientific symposium, accredited for Continuing Medical Education (CME), will take place on July 25, 2024, from 15:00 to 16:00 local time in Room 13a for in-person participation and on Channel 6 for virtual attendees.
Spotlight on Ali Raza Khan
One of the key speakers for this session is Ali Raza Khan, an HIV-positive gay activist from Multan, Pakistan. Khan is the founder of PridePakistan.org and co-lead of TheYouthPACT.org. His work focuses on advocating for the rights and health of marginalized communities, particularly those affected by HIV and climate change.
Session Overview
Moderated by Mary Ann Torres from ICASO, the session will delve into the dire impacts of emergencies caused by pandemics, war, the climate crisis, and other catastrophic events on vulnerable and marginalized communities. The discussion will cover a range of critical issues, including:
Continuity of Care: Ensuring ongoing care for children and young people born with HIV.
Access Disruptions: Addressing interruptions in HIV prevention, testing, and treatment services.
Challenges for Migrants and Refugees: Highlighting the specific difficulties faced by these groups.
Increased Vulnerability to Co-Infections: Focusing on diseases such as diarrhoea, lung infections, and TB.
Impact of Food and Water Shortages: Examining how these shortages increase vulnerability to illness.
Inequalities in Social Protection: Discussing disparities in access to social safety nets.
Risk of Violence and Exploitation: Addressing the heightened risk of violence and exploitation in crisis situations.
Gender Inequality and Gender-Based Violence: Exploring the exacerbation of these issues during emergencies.
Forced HIV Testing of Migrants: Highlighting the ethical and health implications.
Funding Challenges: Discussing the impact of dwindling resources in the face of multiple crises.
Ali Raza Khan will share insights from his extensive work in Pakistan, where he has witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of climate change on communities living with HIV. His presentation will focus on the resilience and strength of these communities in the face of natural disasters. Khan will highlight the innovative strategies employed by community organizations to mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as plantation projects and collaborations with stakeholders to ensure inclusive efforts for those living with HIV.
Other Speakers
The session will also feature contributions from:
Juddy Otti from the Africa Advocacy Foundation, United Kingdom
Sophia Charles from Caris Foundation International, United States
These speakers will provide a global perspective on the challenges and solutions related to the health of vulnerable communities during emergencies.
Ali Raza Khan’s participation in this session underscores the importance of community-led initiatives and the need for global solidarity in addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by natural disasters and other crises. His work with Pride Pakistan and The Youth PACT exemplifies the power of resilience and the critical role of advocacy in safeguarding the health and rights of marginalized populations.
