Human Security and Energy Security: A Case Study of Pakistan

Abstract

In recent decades, use of energy has greatly evolved to become a vital human security element. In developed countries energy security (ES) is regarded as one of the fundamental pillars of national energy frameworks and developmental goals. Pakistan is facing acute level of energy insecurity manifested by issues such as lack of access to grid, gap between demand and supply, import dependency and soaring energy prices. Climate change, a phenomenon closely related to human use of energy, is also posing serious threats to not only the environmental and ecological scenarios of the country but also wider socio-economics. Energy policies remain entrapped within the narrow spectrum of meeting energy requirements, lacking a balanced approach to the emerging needs of reliable and sustainable supply chain. The existing energy scenario emphasizes the need for featuring the human welfare parameters in the energy policy discourse. This study critically examines the human security aspects of the energy scenario. The paper underscores the need for including human security as an integral element in the energy policy for ensuring sustainable socio-economic progress.