Global leaders unite at COP28 in Dubai, kickstarting a fund to address climate-related loss and damage, marking a significant step towards climate justice and international cooperation
UN Climate Chief Simon Stiell declared the 28th annual COP conference officially underway, highlighting the significance of today's announcement on loss and damage. Stiell urged governments and negotiators to harness this momentum to deliver ambitious outcomes in Dubai.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres echoed the sentiment on X (formerly Twitter), welcoming the agreement to operationalize the fund as an essential tool for climate justice. Guterres urged leaders to support the fund, emphasising its crucial role in kickstarting COP28 on a robust note.
The fund addresses a longstanding demand from developing nations grappling with the aftermath of escalating extreme weather events, including droughts, floods, and rising seas. After years of negotiations at UN climate meetings, developed nations expressed their support for establishing the fund during COP27 in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt.
Sultan al-Jaber, President of the COP28 climate conference, announced the United Arab Emirates' commitment of $100 million to the fund. Germany has similarly pledged $100 million, while the United States and Japan have also contributed.
The 28th COP, hosted at Expo City on the outskirts of Dubai, commenced today and will run until December 12. Over 70,000 delegates and climate negotiators will gather to shape a sustainable future. The expansive campus, adorned with greenery, sets the stage for crucial discussions on climate action and global cooperation.