The United States has withdrawn from a global climate fund aimed at compensating developing nations affected by climate change. This decision has drawn criticism from the African Group of Negotiators, which expresses concern over the potential impact on vulnerable countries. Climate activists also emphasize the need for accountability from the US as the largest historical emitter of greenhouse gases.
The United States has formally withdrawn from a global climate agreement that ensured compensation for developing nations adversely impacted by climate change. This decision has met with significant disapproval from the African Group of Negotiators (AGN), which believes such a withdrawal endangers essential support for nations facing severe climate consequences. AGN Chair Ali Mohamed articulated the organization’s disappointment, stressing that the US, having the largest historical responsibility for climate issues, is jeopardizing vulnerable countries’ welfare.
Rebecca Lawlor, Deputy Director at the US Office of Climate and Environment, communicated this withdrawal to Jean Christophe Donnellier, the Developed Country Co-Chair of the Fund. Her letter confirmed that the United States would not replace its Board Member or Alternate Board Member upon resignation. This withdrawal comes after years of confrontations by developing nations for the establishment of compensation funds, which were agreed upon during the UN climate conference held in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, in 2022.
Climate activist Harjeet Singh criticized the decision, associating it with a historical trend of the US obstructing necessary funding to address climate impacts. Singh remarked that the United States, as the largest historical emitter of greenhouse gases, carries a significant responsibility for the adverse climate impacts on vulnerable communities globally. He emphasized the need to hold the US accountable and ensure it contributes its appropriate share towards global climate reparations.
The withdrawal of the United States from the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage has sparked serious concerns and disappointment among developing nations, particularly in Africa. The decision undermines crucial financial support for countries grappling with climate change impacts. It highlights the ongoing challenges in attaining climate justice, particularly from historically significant emitters, reinforcing the necessity for accountability and reparations in global climate efforts.
Original Source: www.newsdrum.in
