COP29 Climate Talks Demand Justice for Island Nations, UN Chief Condemns ‘Colossal Injustice’
November 13, 2024 (Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt) – At the ongoing COP29 climate talks, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has delivered a passionate call for major emitters to address the “colossal injustice” faced by island nations on the front lines of climate change.
“The world has a moral imperative to save these vulnerable nations from climate chaos,” Guterres emphasized. “We must not betray the trust of those who have done the least to cause this crisis yet suffer the most from its impacts.”
Sea-Level Rise and Extreme Weather
Island nations are particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts, such as sea-level rise and increasingly frequent and intense extreme weather events. As temperatures continue to rise, these risks only escalate, threatening the very existence of these communities.
“Entire nations could vanish from the map if we fail to act,” Guterres warned. “The consequences of our inaction would be both catastrophic and irreversible.”
Financial and Technical Support
Guterres called on major emitters to provide substantial financial and technical support to island nations, enabling them to adapt to climate change, build resilience, and transition to renewable energy sources.
“Climate justice demands that wealthy nations pay their fair share for the damage they have caused,” he said. “This includes investing in adaptation measures, reducing emissions, and supporting sustainable development.”
Global Agreement
The UN chief also urged countries to reach a binding global agreement on climate finance at COP29. “We need a clear roadmap for how we will provide the financial resources needed to address the climate crisis,” he stated.
Climate Refugees
Guterres expressed concern about the growing number of climate refugees displaced by rising sea levels and other climate impacts. He urged countries to cooperate in establishing a global framework for managing climate displacement and ensuring the rights of those affected.
Responsibility and Solidarity
“We have a collective responsibility to support the most vulnerable nations in this climate emergency,” Guterres concluded. “It is time for solidarity, ambition, and decisive action.”
Response from Island Nations
Representatives from island nations welcomed Guterres’s speech, expressing gratitude for his recognition of their plight. They emphasized the urgency of delivering on financial commitments and taking bold climate action.
“We are grateful for the Secretary-General’s support and his call for justice,” said Andrew Mitchell, the Prime Minister of Grenada. “We need tangible actions that will help us protect our homes and livelihoods.”
Next Steps
Negotiations at COP29 will continue over the coming days, with a focus on securing a comprehensive climate finance agreement and advancing discussions on other key issues related to climate mitigation, adaptation, and resilience.
COP29 climate talks: Major emitters must right ‘colossal injustice’ on island nations, says UN chief
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