Belém: Fragile states are raising concerns over their exclusion from climate finance at the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30), urging for a more inclusive approach to funding. COP30 President André Corrêa do Lago emphasized the need to prioritize people in climate action, but a network of fragile states argues that over one billion vulnerable individuals remain sidelined in climate discussions.
According to African Press Organization, the Improved and Equitable Access to Climate Finance Network released a statement highlighting the challenges faced by countries affected by conflict and fragility. The network, comprising ten nations with fragile governance, including Burundi, Mauritania, Somalia, and Papua New Guinea, claims these countries are “locked out” of crucial funding needed to adapt to climate impacts. The network is calling for COP30 and climate funds to address this oversight in climate finance.
More than one billion people reside in nations affected by conflict, violence, and fragile governance, yet in 2022, these nations received a mere 10% of global climate finance. Countries face numerous barriers in accessing finance, such as lengthy application processes and stringent requirements. Yemen’s Minister of Water and Environment, Tawfiq Al-Sharjabi, highlighted at a UNFCCC side event the constraints posed by complex procedures, limited technical capacities, and the lack of flexible financial instruments in securing climate finance.
Somalia’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Bashir Mohamed Jama, noted that while Somalia receives over $300 million in climate-related funding annually, this is less than 1% of the required amount for adaptation. Conversely, Somalia receives $1.1 billion in humanitarian aid each year. Jama emphasized the discrepancy as a significant failure in the global development system, where post-disaster finance is easier to access than preventative investments.
Negotiations at COP30 to boost climate finance flows further underscore the urgency of the issue. Mauricio Vazquez from think tank ODI Global stressed the need for ambition not just in unlocking additional funds but also in ensuring existing resources reach those most in need.
The Improved and Equitable Access to Climate Finance Network, established in 2024, seeks to draw attention to these financing gaps. The network welcomed Mauritania, Papua New Guinea, and South Sudan as new members, advocating for reforms in how climate funds and development banks allocate resources. The focus is on long-term projects that enhance climate resilience rather than post-disaster support.
Climate adaptation is a key focus at COP30, with governments working to finalize indicators for the Global Goal on Adaptation under the UNFCCC. However, experts warn that without including fragile and conflict-affected countries, climate impacts will continue to worsen conditions for the most vulnerable. Asif R. Khan from the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs highlighted the amplifying effect of climate change on conflict and displacement, citing examples such as water scarcity heightening tensions in West Africa.
To effectively support fragile countries, stability and peace are crucial. Khan emphasized the need for comprehensive efforts involving all societal sectors to build resilience and foster peace. This collaborative approach is echoed by several donor governments, including Ireland. Neale Richmond, Ireland’s Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs, underscored the importance of an inclusive approach prioritizing peace and security alongside sustainability and resilience.