At COP29 in Baku, a major breakthrough for climate action in conflict-affected areas was achieved with the introduction of the “Common Principles for Effective Climate Finance and Action for Relief, Recovery, and Peace.” This pivotal policy document, endorsed by Switzerland, aims to address the unique challenges faced by fragile and conflict-prone regions that are disproportionately impacted by climate change.
The document builds on the work done in COP28 and focuses on ensuring that climate finance and action are effectively directed toward areas suffering from both environmental degradation and political instability. The principles outlined are designed to ensure that climate interventions are impactful, sustainable, and community-driven. These principles include:
- Understanding local needs for long-term, meaningful outcomes.
- Being agile in maintaining and enhancing resilience.
- Prioritizing local ownership and leadership by affected groups.
- Supporting collaboration and synergies across sectors.
These principles are not new ideas, but they represent a crucial step forward in recognizing the complex intersection of climate change and conflict. By supporting both local and international stakeholders, the policy encourages collaboration between governments, financial institutions, and NGOs.
As a coordinator of the ECCP (Environmental Change and Conflict Practice), I have witnessed the intersection of climate challenges and conflict firsthand. In places like Somalia, where competition for water resources has fueled conflict, or in Yemen, where climate concerns have often been overshadowed by ongoing war, it is clear that these regions must receive urgent attention in climate action discussions.
The principles introduced at COP29 aim to ensure that countries like Somalia and Yemen, often overlooked in multilateral climate policies, are prioritized. Despite the challenges, meaningful climate action is possible in conflict zones, provided that it is sensitive to local needs and political dynamics.
A Shift in Global Climate Discourse
The endorsement of these principles marks a significant shift in how the international community views climate finance and action. Traditionally, climate finance has been inequitably distributed, with conflict-affected regions receiving a fraction of the support given to more stable areas. The Common Principles offer a platform for better collaboration and mutual understanding among stakeholders, encouraging more equitable distribution of resources.
While this policy is not a silver bullet, it offers a promising path forward. Over the years, the relevance of peacebuilding in climate discussions has steadily grown, and COP29’s focus on peace, relief, and recovery further demonstrates the international community’s commitment to addressing these challenges holistically.
The endorsement of the Common Principles by a diverse group of stakeholders, including major financial institutions and small NGOs, highlights a collaborative approach that can drive long-term change. This document signals an evolving understanding of climate action as it pertains to fragile, conflict-affected areas.
Looking Ahead: The Next Steps
The implementation of these principles is only the beginning. The road ahead requires continued effort to ensure that climate finance reaches the most vulnerable populations and is tailored to their specific needs. Incremental change may not always make headlines, but it is essential in building trust, fostering relationships, and creating the necessary conditions for sustainable climate action in conflict zones.
The endorsement of the Common Principles is a crucial first step, but it is through continued dialogue, collaboration, and increased investment that we will see real progress in the fight against climate change in fragile environments.