The Dakar Declaration: A Call to Action for Climate Justice

What is the Dakar Declaration on Climate Change 2023?

The Dakar Declaration is a formal statement issued by ministers representing the world's 46 Least Developed Countries (LDCs). This declaration outlines their collective demands and expectations for the COP28 climate conference, which is the 28th Conference of Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.

Key Focus Areas of the Dakar Declaration

The declaration emphasizes several critical areas:

• Urgent need for global emission reductions.
• Increased climate finance to help LDCs adapt to the impacts of climate change.
• Operationalizing the newly established Loss and Damage Fund.
• An ambitious global review process, known as the Global Stocktake, to assess progress in climate action.

Why is the Dakar Declaration Important?

Highlighting Disproportionate Impacts

LDCs contribute minimally to global emissions, accounting for only about 1%, yet they face some of the most severe impacts of climate change. The Dakar Declaration draws attention to this injustice, emphasizing the need for greater global responsibility.

A United Voice

By presenting a unified front, the LDCs amplify their voices, thereby increasing their bargaining power in international climate negotiations. This collective approach is essential for ensuring that their needs and concerns are adequately addressed.

Influencing COP28 Outcomes

The primary aim of the declaration is to shape the agenda and decisions at COP28, driving action on the most pressing issues faced by the world's most vulnerable nations.

In summary, the Dakar Declaration serves as a critical tool for LDCs, advocating for the necessary changes to combat climate change effectively and justly. It represents a commitment to ensuring that the voices of those most affected by climate change are heard and prioritized on the global stage.