United States Withdraws from Climate Compensation Agreement for Developing Nations

The United States has exited a global agreement to compensate developing nations for climate change, disappointing the African Group of Negotiators. The withdrawal jeopardizes essential support for vulnerable countries. Climate activist Harjeet Singh denounced the decision as an obstruction to climate justice, emphasizing accountability for historical emissions.

The United States has officially withdrawn from a global agreement aimed at compensating developing nations for climate change impacts. This decision has elicited feelings of deep disappointment from the African Group of Negotiators (AGN), a coalition representing various African nations involved in UN climate discussions.

AGN Chair Ali Mohamed stated that the withdrawal from the Board for the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage jeopardizes essential support for vulnerable nations enduring irreversible effects of climate change. Furthermore, Rebecca Lawlor, Deputy Director at the U.S. Office of Climate and Environment, confirmed the withdrawal in communication to Jean Christophe Donnellier, the Developed Country Co-Chair, noting that the United States Board Member and Alternate Board Member will resign without further replacements.

The fund, which was established in response to the advocacy of developing and least-developed nations, was agreed upon at the UN climate conference held in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, in 2022. It was also decided during COP29 in Baku that the fund would be operationalized starting January 1, 2025.

Climate activist Harjeet Singh highlighted that the United States’ withdrawal is part of a prolonged pattern of obstruction that hinders progress in securing necessary funds to address climate impacts. He emphasized the need for accountability from the United States, being the largest historical emitter of greenhouse gases, to ensure they contribute fairly to global climate reparations.

In summary, the withdrawal of the United States from the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage has prompted considerable disappointment among global leaders, particularly within the African Group of Negotiators. The decision undermines efforts towards climate justice and raises questions about the nation’s accountability regarding its contribution to climate change. Moving forward, it is crucial for the global community to address these challenges collaboratively.

Original Source: www.theweek.in