As we prepare to engage at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to elevating climate action and just environmental transition across West Asia and North Africa (WANA).
ARI’s involvement and participation embodies our dedication to advocating for transformative and meaningful environmental policy reforms and promoting a fair and just environmental transition which amplifies the voices of those most affected by climate change.
Our Goals for COP29 At a Glance
Amidst the persistent wars and man-made disasters that have long burdened the people and ecosystems of our region, it is crucial to remember that environmental and climate challenges wait for no one and spare no one. War and conflict, while devastating, do not pause the pressing issues of climate change. These crises highlight the imperative to shift from unsustainable practices like fossil fuel dependency and extractivism policies towards more resilient and sustainable systems.
Our Environmental Politics Program (EPP) continues to spotlight the unique environmental challenges faced by communities in the WANA region. At COP29, we will emphasize the urgent need for sustainable governance that prioritizes participation of all actors, especially marginalised communities. Our aim is to translate and amplify the messages of local communities most impacted by climate change, underscoring the profound intersection of climate, policy, and social inequality.
Recognizing the hardships faced by local communities, we are committed to advocating for a Just Environmental Transition—a mission that demands collective action and steadfast partnerships.
We call for action to bring forth the diverse and critical perspectives from grassroots movements, researchers, and CSOs from the WANA region and particularly to scale up financial support for developing countries that will be impacted the most by climate change. This responsibility fuels our efforts to advocate for regional priorities and promote a just environmental transition and a participation of climate actors in decision-making processes as a cornerstone for sustainable solutions.
At COP 29, our focus will be on establishing a transformative global climate finance framework, the ‘New Collective Quantified Goal’ (NCQG). While developed countries currently commit $100 billion annually to support climate mitigation and adaptation in developing nations, this amount starkly contrasts with the $2.4 trillion estimated to be necessary annually to achieve global climate goals. Recognizing this discrepancy, we advocate for the NCQG to encompass a more equitable distribution of resources.
We will advocate for the development of inclusive climate finance frameworks that specifically engage underrepresented groups, particularly youth from communities facing socio-economic and political challenges. It is crucial to integrate their perspectives into both policy formulation and the allocation of funds. By doing so, we aim to foster climate strategies that are not only more responsive but also fundamentally equitable. This approach ensures that global efforts are aligned with the localized needs and aspirations of those most impacted by climate change.
Our Key Messages
COP29 Statement
For an in-depth understanding of ARI's key messages and position from COP29, please refer to our detailed statement.
Meet Our COP29 Representatives:
Representing ARI at COP29 will be two distinguished members of our Environmental Politics team:
We are conducting a survey to analyze insights into the key demands and priorities of civil society organizations (CSOs), researchers, and other actors regarding the upcoming COP29. This survey is a part of the Sharaka and The Just Transition Green Bridge projects which aim to advance climate justice and promote sustainable governance through enhanced participation and collaboration among CSOs, citizens, and impacted communities. Your responses will help shape our understanding of regional priorities in climate finance, adaptation, loss and damage, and the intersection between climate and conflict.
Our COP29 events:
Collaborate with ARI at COP29
We welcome journalists, researchers, and activists eager to amplify the narratives of youth and civil society in the Arab region. Whether you wish to engage in discussions, contribute to our environmental podcast series, or seek expert commentary, join us in fostering impactful change.
Reach out to Zeinab: reachout2epp@arab-reform.net
