At COP29, termed the ‘Finance COP,’ the climate finance resolution was criticized for inadequacy, with developing countries demanding $1 trillion annually but receiving only $300 billion. The conference underscored a recurring disconnect between the needs of developing nations and the commitments of developed nations regarding climate finance, as procedural issues and disagreements on funding sources hindered progress.
The COP29 conference, defined as the ‘Finance COP,’ centered around crucial discussions on climate finance, particularly the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) for climate mitigation and adaptation. Delegates from developing nations, including India and Nigeria, criticized the resolution as inadequate and termed it as a ‘joke,’ highlighting the total allocation of only $300 billion a year by developed nations, falling short of the demanded $1 trillion. The adopted resolution failed to address essential funding for adapting to the adverse impacts of climate change, emphasizing the ongoing responsibility of developed nations, which historically contributed the most to greenhouse gas emissions. The discussions at COP29 unveiled considerable disagreements regarding who should contribute towards climate finance, with developing nations pressing for public funds while developed countries suggested involving emerging economies.
The COP29 conference aimed to establish a significant financial framework to combat climate change, following decades of negotiations on international climate finance. The urgency to mobilize substantial funds has been spurred by the persistent and escalating impacts of climate change, particularly on developing countries, which seek financial support to meet their adaptation needs and transition towards greener economies. Past pledges by developed nations have often gone unfulfilled, leading to skepticism among developing countries regarding future commitments.
COP29 has unveiled the profound disconnect between the urgent demands of developing nations for sufficient climate finance and the insufficient commitments made by developed countries. As criticisms mount, it is evident that without meeting the historical responsibilities of developed nations in financing climate adaptation, global efforts to combat climate change could face significant setbacks. The stage is set for COP30 to address these disparities and strive for meaningful resolutions.
Original Source: www.orfonline.org