UN Chief Urges Climate Justice, Calls for Developed Nations to Take Responsibility

Antalya, Turkey, November 11 (Daily Kiran) : United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres made a compelling call for “climate justice” during the UN Climate Change Conference in Antalya, Turkey. He emphasized the necessity for a global framework that holds developed nations accountable for their significant contributions to rising global temperatures.

Guterres stated, “Those who pollute must pay the price.” He proposed the creation of a new “Climate Justice Compact” that operates on the principles of shared responsibility, security, and benefits. He stressed that while every country must play its part, responsibilities should be determined based on each nation’s circumstances.

According to Guterres, a country’s responsibility should be assessed based on its historical greenhouse gas emissions. He highlighted that nations and corporations that have profited the most from fossil fuels should contribute proportionately to addressing the damages caused by climate change.

Criticizing the fossil fuel industry, he noted that the world’s nine largest oil companies made a staggering $95 billion in profits in just the last three months. His remarks followed India’s recent call for increased global accountability in tackling climate change impacts.

Nand Kumar Bhushan, Secretary of India’s Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, stated that the conference must yield results that are fair, balanced, and ambitious. He reiterated the necessity of public financial support from developed nations to help developing countries cope with climate change effects and mitigate their vulnerabilities.

Guterres urged developed countries to ensure substantial financial assistance is provided to developing nations facing climate challenges. He insisted that developed nations must lead by committing to provide at least $300 billion annually by 2035. Additionally, he called for a threefold increase in financial support for adaptation, complete with clear targets and timelines.

He stressed that the $1.3 trillion target set for developing nations must not remain merely a figure on paper but should translate into real financial support for those in need. Guterres also pointed out that funding from governments and multilateral development institutions, along with private investment, should facilitate the transition to a green economy in developing countries.

He urged for increased South-South cooperation to enhance access to technology and capital. Guterres warned that trade barriers, monopolies on technology, and geopolitical rivalries continue to hinder effective global action against climate change.

The Antalya conference is attended by representatives from 197 nations. However, the United States, historically the largest emitter of greenhouse gases, is boycotting the event, aligning with former President Donald Trump’s policies that downplayed climate change initiatives.