The Global South’s Quest for Equity in Climate Action

What Are the Expectations and Demands of the Global South?

The Global South, comprising nations in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, advocates for equitable treatment and assistance in climate negotiations. Their primary demands include:

• Climate Finance: A call for developed countries to allocate at least $1.3 trillion annually in climate financing until 2030. This support should prioritize grants and non-debt-increasing aid to help developing nations with both mitigation and adaptation efforts.
• Technology Transfer and Capacity Building: The Global South seeks access to green technologies and skill development, allowing them to pursue low-carbon growth while maintaining economic progress.
• Opposition to Unilateral Trade Restrictions: Countries such as India, Brazil, and China stand against unilateral trade measures like the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), perceiving them as discriminatory barriers that jeopardize economic stability.
• Adaptation Funding: Developing nations require substantial financial assistance to tackle climate adaptation and alleviate the impacts of extreme weather events, which disproportionately affect them.

What Agenda is the Global South Pursuing at COP29?

The Global South aims to create a more balanced and inclusive climate policy framework. Key agenda items include:

• Equity in Climate Action: Advocating for a differentiated approach that recognizes the varying capacities of countries. The Global South insists that developed nations, historically accountable for high emissions, should lead in resource provision and emission reductions.
• Separate Agenda on Trade Restrictions: Advocating for dedicated discussions on the effects of unilateral trade restrictions, arguing that these policies impose unjust economic burdens on developing nations.
• Focus on Adaptation and Resilience: Highlighting the significance of climate adaptation initiatives to help countries manage the direct consequences of climate change.

What is the Position of the Global North?

The Global North, led by nations in Europe, North America, and other developed regions, approaches climate negotiations with a strong emphasis on emissions reduction and market-driven climate solutions. Their position includes:

• Carbon Pricing and Border Adjustments: The North supports mechanisms like CBAM to impose carbon taxes on imports from high-emission sectors. This measure aims to level the playing field for domestic industries but is regarded by the Global South as protectionist.
• Conditional Climate Finance: While committing to financial support, the North often ties funding to specific criteria or projects, emphasizing measurable outcomes and private sector involvement.
• Focus on Decarbonization: Developed countries stress the urgency of reducing global carbon footprints and prioritize policies that transition industries towards renewable energy.
• Limited Flexibility on Historical Responsibilities: The North typically emphasizes forward-looking policies, which can lead to resistance in acknowledging historical emissions and their obligation to provide significant reparative support.

How is the Dispute Over Unilateral Trade Measures Affecting COP29?

Unilateral trade measures such as CBAM have become a divisive issue, with the Global South viewing these as unfair trade practices that undermine their economic interests. They argue that such policies overlook their developmental requirements and impose unnecessary economic limitations. Conversely, the Global North defends CBAM as an essential measure to combat carbon leakage and ensure competitive equality.

Why is India’s Intervention Significant for the Global South?

India has emerged as a prominent advocate for the Global South, championing a fairer climate framework that addresses the challenges faced by developing nations. By advocating for a distinct agenda on trade restrictions and pushing for increased financial support, India bolsters the collective stance of the Global South, underscoring the critical need for equity and collaboration.