The U.S. has withdrawn from a climate compensation fund aimed at helping developing nations. This decision disappoints the African Group of Negotiators, indicating potential setbacks for vulnerable countries. Climate activist Harjeet Singh criticizes the pattern of U.S. non-commitment and emphasizes the need for accountability for climate reparations.
The U.S. has opted out of a global agreement intended to aid developing nations impacted by climate change. This decision has sparked dismay from the African Group of Negotiators, which represents several African countries in UN climate discussions. They expressed concern that the U.S., bearing significant historical responsibility for climate change, is abandoning crucial support for nations facing dire climate consequences.
Rebecca Lawlor, a Deputy Director at the U.S. Office of Climate and Environment, officially notified the Co-Chair of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage of the U.S. withdrawal, stating it is effective immediately. This move means no U.S. representatives will replace the departing Board Member and Alternate Board Member.
The fund, established during the UN climate conference in Sharm El-Sheikh in 2022, was created after persistent advocacy from developing nations. It aims to start operations by January 1, 2025, as per agreements made at COP29 in Baku in 2024.
Climate activist Harjeet Singh criticized the withdrawal, linking it to a historical trend of U.S. resistance in funding for climate impact mitigation. He underscored that, as the largest polluter historically, the U.S. has substantial accountability for the adverse climate effects that vulnerable communities face globally.
The U.S. withdrawal from the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage raises significant concerns regarding climate justice and support for developing nations. This action reflects a broader issue of financial backing from wealthier countries towards climate resilience efforts. The establishment and operationalization of the fund are crucial for mitigating climate impacts, particularly in vulnerable regions, highlighting the urgency for accountability and fair contributions from countries with historical emissions.
Original Source: www.theweek.in
