The annual United Nations climate summit, COP29 has begun in Baku, Azerbaijan, and is already sparking heated discussions. This year’s meeting is more critical than ever, with delegates facing difficult debates on climate finance, trade policies, and extreme weather disasters. The absence of some major world leaders, such as U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, has raised concerns about the summit’s success.
Developing Nations Demand Greater Climate Finance
One of the main issues at the summit is financing. Developing countries are calling for increased funding to tackle climate change impacts. They argue that past pledges for climate aid were inadequate and are now pushing for a substantial increase to $1 trillion annually. They see this funding as essential to help them adapt to climate challenges and invest in sustainable infrastructure, which they cannot afford on their own. The U.N. has emphasised that this financial support is not just a generous gesture but something that benefits all nations, including the wealthiest.
Economic Worries and International Tensions Complicate Talks
This year’s climate summit comes at a challenging time, with other global issues competing for attention. Wars in Ukraine and Gaza, along with economic uncertainties, have taken a toll on many countries’ resources and focus. Additionally, the re-election of Donald Trump as U.S. president has added new complications. Trump’s stance on climate issues is well-known; he has previously called climate change a hoax and is expected to pull the U.S. out of the Paris Agreement again. With the U.S. being one of the world’s largest economies and a major polluter, this could disrupt the momentum for global climate action.
China Pushes for Trade Talks at Climate Summit
At the last minute, China requested that the summit discuss trade restrictions, especially focusing on tariffs related to carbon emissions. Along with other countries in the BASIC group (Brazil, India, and South Africa), China is concerned about the European Union’s upcoming carbon border tariffs, which will require countries to pay for the carbon emissions of goods they export to the EU. They argue that these tariffs create unfair barriers for developing economies. China’s request highlights its growing influence in global climate discussions and shows that trade and environmental issues are increasingly linked.
Trump’s Return Worries Climate Advocates
Trump’s return to office is causing concern among climate advocates. During his first term, he withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Agreement and rolled back several climate initiatives. Now, he has promised to impose high tariffs on foreign goods, with an especially harsh impact on Chinese products. Many fear that Trump’s policies could stall international cooperation and reduce commitments from other nations. If the U.S. lowers its climate ambitions, other countries may feel less compelled to meet their own goals.
Extreme Weather Events Underscore Urgency
This year is on track to be the hottest on record, with extreme weather events hitting many countries. From severe floods in Africa, Spain, and parts of the U.S. to droughts in South America and Mexico, climate impacts are becoming more severe. Scientists warn that without urgent action, these events will only worsen and impact more people globally. Many at the summit are concerned that if major economies, like the U.S., fail to step up, the effects of climate change will continue to harm both developed and developing countries alike.
Azerbaijan Faces Pressure to Shift Away from Fossil Fuels
As the host country of COP29 Azerbaijan is under pressure to make meaningful climate commitments. Azerbaijan’s economy, which is highly dependent on gas and oil, presents a difficult problem. Currently, fossil fuel revenues make up a large portion of its economy. However, the country has pledged to reduce this dependency over the next few years, aiming to drop fossil fuel revenue to 22% of its economy by 2028. Azerbaijan’s government has also proposed the creation of a Climate Finance Action Fund, encouraging oil and gas companies to contribute voluntarily.
Azerbaijan’s Role as Europe’s Energy Supplier
Azerbaijan is a key player in Europe’s energy market. As Europe seeks to cut its reliance on Russian gas, Azerbaijan’s gas exports to the continent are rising, expected to exceed 12 billion cubic meters this year. While this strengthens Azerbaijan’s position in the European market, it has also attracted criticism. Climate advocates argue that relying on gas as a “transition fuel” can delay progress towards clean energy. Azerbaijan’s stance is that natural gas can serve as a bridge fuel while it gradually transitions to cleaner energy sources.
Political Controversies Cloud Azerbaijan’s Image
Despite Azerbaijan’s leadership role at COP29 the country faces scrutiny for human rights issues. International observers have raised concerns over Azerbaijan’s treatment of political prisoners, including journalists and members of ethnic groups who are seen as separatists. Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev has defended his government’s actions, arguing that they are necessary for national security and peace. However, critics warn that such actions could hinder Azerbaijan’s credibility and effectiveness in leading climate initiatives.
Climate Finance Needs Global Cooperation
As COP29 progresses, it is clear that achieving substantial progress will require cooperation and compromise from all countries. While the summit is focused on climate finance, other issues like trade and human rights also play a significant role. Developing countries are standing firm in their call for greater support, and wealthy nations will need to respond if they hope to reach an agreement. Leaders are aware that inaction on climate issues could lead to further economic and social instability worldwide.
The Future of Global Climate Action Remains Uncertain
With significant challenges on the table, the outcome of this year’s climate summit is uncertain. The absence of major leaders, the return of Trump, and differing national priorities add to the complexity. But as extreme weather events continue to impact lives and economies around the world, there is growing pressure to act. The success of COP29 will depend on whether countries can find common ground and commit to meaningful steps toward a sustainable future.
In the coming days, delegates will continue to debate these critical issues, hoping to reach agreements that will address the climate crisis and foster a more resilient, cooperative international community.