The 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) commences in Baku, Azerbaijan, today. This pivotal gathering, the world’s biggest climate change summit, brings together world leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to proffer solutions to the escalating global climate crisis.
It is self-evident that the past year has witnessed devastating natural disasters in many parts of the world, especially across Africa. Many regions, too, suffered crippling heatwaves, droughts, irregular rainfall, ocean and dam overflowing, and worsening environmental degradation.
Without reopening the climate debate, which once dominated academic discussions and weaponised the anti-climate conspiracy theories, the world is agreed largely that human activities are pushing our planet to the brink.
Therefore, COP29 presents a great opportunity for nations and other critical stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to the 2015 Paris Agreement by supporting actions aimed at limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
As the 12-day summit begins today, there is high expectation that participants will take defining decisions on bold climate actions to save our planet.
One issue that must top the agenda of the summit is climate finance and redeeming of pledges. We call on developed nations to fulfil their promise of mobilising $100 billion annually for climate adaptation and mitigation in developing countries. The delay in actualising the pledge may dampen the morale of developing countries who are exerting themselves on climate actions.
We would also like to see countries coming forward to present clearly intentional and ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) towards emission reduction targets based on equitable and just energy transition plans.
In the same vein, the outcome of COP29 must reflect the urgency to protect the vulnerable communities worldwide by paying special attention to building climate resilience and seamless adaptation.
We believe that the success of COP29 is predicated on transparency, accountability, and cooperation of world leaders. Survival of our planet should take priority over parochial national interest at this critical stage when commitments made at the recent past COPs must be translated to measurable actions.
As the host, Azerbaijan has a unique chance to showcase its climate initiatives and stimulate effective dialogue. The Azerbaijan Presidency has earned global acclaim for its exemplary initiatives to drive comprehensive inclusion by all participants. This is highly commendable.
From today, and for the next 12 days, world leaders and stakeholders will have another opportunity to walk the talk on climate action beyond the past rhetoric.
Our action, or inaction, today will determine the sustainability of the global environment and, ultimately, the fate of future generations. The choice is clear – proffer climate solutions, embrace climate actions, and save the mother earth.