By Abbas Nazil
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has renewed his call for climate justice while urging reforms in the global financial system to give developing nations, particularly vulnerable states, a stronger voice in international decision-making.
Speaking in Port Moresby before departing Papua New Guinea, Guterres emphasized the urgent need for wealthy countries and financial institutions to deliver on promises of aid and concessional funding to help climate-vulnerable nations build resilience against the escalating threats of global warming.
The UN Chief highlighted what he described as an injustice, pointing out that Papua New Guinea, despite being categorized as a middle-income country, does not qualify for concessional financing.
He stressed that such nations, already bearing the brunt of climate impacts, should not be denied access to affordable resources needed to adapt to changing environmental realities.
Guterres praised Papua New Guinea’s contributions to global climate mitigation efforts, citing its vast forests and oceans that serve as critical carbon sinks for the planet.
He urged the international community to match the country’s efforts with concrete financial and technical support, arguing that nations making sacrifices to safeguard the planet deserve reciprocal assistance.
The Secretary-General also lauded Papua New Guinea for maintaining 50 years of uninterrupted democracy despite facing significant challenges related to its geographical diversity and complex linguistic landscape.
He underlined that stable governance in climate-vulnerable countries provides an opportunity for global partners to invest in long-term climate resilience and sustainable development.
In his remarks, Guterres framed climate justice as both a moral and practical imperative, stating that those least responsible for emissions are suffering the gravest consequences.
He reiterated his belief that addressing climate change requires solidarity and fairness, especially in ensuring that the most exposed nations are not left behind.
He further connected the issue of climate justice to broader reforms in the international financial system.
According to him, existing structures favor wealthy countries, leaving many developing states saddled with debt and limited access to affordable financing.
Reforming these systems, he argued, would help redistribute opportunities and resources more equitably, ensuring that climate action becomes truly global rather than a burden carried by a few.
The call came against the backdrop of ongoing discussions about climate financing commitments ahead of upcoming global climate meetings.
Guterres’s message reflects mounting pressure on developed nations to fulfill financial pledges and restructure aid mechanisms that could unlock billions for climate adaptation in vulnerable states.
His remarks underscored a growing consensus that without immediate financial reforms and stronger support for frontline nations, the world risks deepening inequalities while failing to address the urgent climate emergency.
