The second Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) Parliamentarians’ Meet in Thimphu has brought together more than 50 lawmakers and experts from eight countries to strengthen regional responses to growing climate threats. With glaciers rapidly receding and floods and landslides becoming increasingly frequent, the meeting is focusing on climate adaptation, mountain resilience, climate finance, and stronger policies and legislation. Participants are exploring how scientific evidence and data can be better integrated into policymaking so that parliaments can make informed decisions, approve appropriate budgets, and strengthen oversight of climate action. The forum is also examining ways to improve access to climate finance and coordinate resources to support vulnerable communities. Parliamentarians stressed that climate impacts are already affecting people across the region and called for collaborative planning and solutions that go beyond national boundaries. A key discussion is whether the parliamentary forum should be institutionalised to sustain dialogue and cooperation among HKH countries. The meeting underscores a growing recognition that as climate risks intensify across the Himalayas, regional cooperation, preparedness, and collective action are becoming essential to building a more resilient future.
