Delegations from several developing nations staged a walkout during the ongoing UN climate conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, as discussions over critical climate financing continue to stall. The Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) and the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) expressed discontent over the lack of progress on the New Collective Quantified Goal, designed to secure funding for climate action in vulnerable regions.
The proposed second draft text suggests that developed countries should contribute $250 billion annually by 2035 to support climate initiatives in developing nations. Cedric Schuster, Chair of AOSIS and Samoa’s Minister for Natural Resources and Environment, reaffirmed AOSIS’s commitment to a fair outcome. He emphasized the importance of multilateral cooperation and urged inclusivity in the negotiations, highlighting that small island states and LDCs are disproportionately affected by climate change, despite contributing minimally to the crisis.
Schuster voiced frustration over the perceived exclusion from the negotiation process, stating that member nations feel disregarded and insulted by the lack of substantive progress regarding their particular needs. He highlighted the urgency of adhering to previous commitments, including the transition from fossil fuels, which is crucial to limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
He implored all nations to act honorably, underscoring the dire consequences for his constituents, as many island nations face existential threats from climate change. Schuster called for collective action and a commitment to a deal that benefits all.
Fiji, as a member of AOSIS, is actively advocating for Pacific Island countries to ensure their voices are heard during these critical discussions. Deputy Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad expressed optimism about reaching an agreement on climate finance, stressing that it is in everyone’s best interest to find a mutually acceptable solution.
This moment in the conference highlights the urgency of climate action and the significant role that collaboration and support from developed countries play in addressing the needs of the most vulnerable nations. The hopeful inclination towards achieving a meaningful agreement suggests that there is still time for nations to prioritize climate justice and sustainability.
Summary: Delegations from developing nations, including AOSIS and LDCs, walked out of the UN climate conference in Azerbaijan due to stalled negotiations on climate financing. They called for more inclusive discussions and emphasized the urgent need for developed countries to meet their funding commitments. Fiji’s delegation remains hopeful for an agreement that addresses the needs of vulnerable nations, underscoring the importance of collective action in the fight against climate change.
Leave a comment