The United States has withdrawn from a global fund designed to support developing nations affected by climate change, disappointing representatives from the African Group of Negotiators. This withdrawal jeopardizes critical assistance for countries facing irreversible impacts, and it follows years of advocacy for such a fund. Climate activists urge accountability from the U.S., citing its significant historical contribution to climate change.
The United States has officially withdrawn from a global agreement aimed at compensating developing nations for climate change consequences. This withdrawal has been met with significant disappointment from the African Group of Negotiators (AGN), representing various African nations in UN climate discussions. AGN Chair Ali Mohamed expressed that this decision, particularly from the leading historical contributor to climate change, threatens essential support for nations experiencing irreversible climate effects.
Rebecca Lawlor, the Deputy Director at the U.S. Office of Climate and Environment, communicated the U.S. withdrawal to Jean Christophe Donnellier, the Developed Country Co-Chair of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage. She stated that both U.S. board members would resign, without future appointments to fill these positions. The fund was established as a result of years of advocacy and was formally created during the UN climate conference in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, in 2022, with plans to operationalize it from January 1, 2025, during COP29 in Baku in 2024.
Climate activist Harjeet Singh criticized the decision, suggesting it represents a continuation of the U.S. government’s history of obstructing necessary financial support to address climate issues. Singh articulated the position that the U.S., as the largest historic emitter of greenhouse gases, has a substantial responsibility for the climate challenges faced by vulnerable populations worldwide. The call for accountability and the need for the U.S. to contribute fairly to global climate reparations were emphasized.
The U.S. withdrawal from the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage represents a significant setback for international climate justice efforts, particularly for developing nations. This decision has faced severe criticism from African representatives and climate activists alike, highlighting the ongoing need for developed countries to assume responsibility for climate change impacts. As discussions continue towards the operationalization of the fund in 2025, the accountability of major emitters like the United States remains crucial.
Original Source: www.newsdrum.in
