Multi Level Environmental Governance for Climate Resilience from Coastal Cities

Abstract

Coastal cities are at the forefront of climate change impacts, facing rising sea levels, intensified storms, and socio‑economic vulnerabilities. Effective climate resilience necessitates multi‑level environmental governance that integrates international frameworks, national policy, regional planning, and local implementation. This article examines coastal governance and resilience strategies in three cities across different governance contexts: Karachi (Pakistan), Dhaka (Bangladesh), and Barcelona (Spain). It highlights how institutional arrangements, stakeholder co‑ordination, and adaptive planning influence resilience outcomes. The comparative analysis reveals that coastal cities with integrated governance frameworks and community‑based adaptation measures demonstrate stronger resilience to climate hazards. Findings underscore the need for inclusive governance, cross‑scale coordination, and climate‑sensitive planning to safeguard coastal populations and ecosystems