COP29: World leaders urge bold action to shield vulnerable populations from climate fallout

On the second day of the COP29 in Baku, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Filippo Grandi presented a report highlighting that refugees are one of the most vulnerable groups to climate change issues.

Filippo Grandi delivered the keynote speech during the presentation, emphasizing that climate change has become a harsh reality for the world’s most marginalized populations, with devastating effects on their lives, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

Grandi stated that climate-induced displacement is pushing people into regions already struggling with high levels of poverty, conflict, and insecurity.

“Solutions to climate-related issues already exist, but urgent action is needed. Without adequate resources and support, the affected populations could find themselves in even more precarious conditions,” he stressed.

Mauritania's Climate Crisis Response

Mauritania’s President, Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, also addressed the summit, speaking about his country’s struggle with the impacts of climate change. He noted that Mauritania, despite contributing a minimal share to global greenhouse gas emissions, is facing severe consequences, including floods and desertification, which hinder the country’s economic development.

“We are actively working to limit emissions. We have introduced taxes, are rehabilitating affected areas, and are making efforts to transition to renewable energy sources (RES). Currently, 48% of our energy consumption is based on RES, and by 2030, we aim to increase this figure to 60%. We call on the international community to support us in our energy transition,” said President El Ghazouani.

He further emphasized that the global increase in temperatures poses a serious threat to humanity, stressing the need to accelerate efforts in tackling climate change. “We bear a historic responsibility to make decisions and rectify the situation before it is too late,” he warned.

The Mauritanian leader also expressed his gratitude to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev for the excellent organization of COP29 and thanked the UAE for the success of COP28 held in Dubai in 2023.

Pakistan's Climate Crisis: A Call for Support

Pakistan, another nation heavily impacted by climate change, was represented by Member of Parliament Rana Atig, who shared the country's experiences with climate-induced natural disasters, including floods and droughts. He highlighted the dire situation that has forced many Pakistanis to flee their homes.

"Climate change has led to catastrophic floods and droughts in recent years, and our population has been displaced. We hope that the global community will increase its awareness of the severe consequences for Pakistan. The country requires technological and financial assistance to address these challenges," Atig said.

He also underscored the close friendship between Azerbaijan and Pakistan, noting their cooperation in political and military spheres. "I hope that our future collaboration will extend to economic, trade, and energy sectors. Pakistan and Azerbaijan have much to share with each other," he added.

Guinea-Bissau: A Call for Building Climate Resilience

President of Guinea-Bissau, Umaro Sissoco Embaló, emphasized the urgent need for adequate financial resources to support vulnerable nations like Guinea-Bissau in strengthening their resilience and adaptive capacity to climate change.

"Climate change knows no borders. We must act globally, making bold decisions and implementing appropriate measures. Guinea-Bissau reaffirms its commitment to contributing to an effective collective response for a sustainable future," Embaló stated during his address at the Climate Leaders' Summit.

He highlighted his country's commitment to developing renewable energy sources and reducing dependence on fossil fuels, advocating for a just energy transition that directly benefits the population.

"We believe that the decisions made here in Baku will reflect our collective awareness of the grave dangers facing our planet, as well as our shared determination to commit to climate justice, international solidarity, and sustainable development. It is our duty to express our will, unite our efforts, and mobilize resources to protect our planet and build a safer and fairer world," Embaló concluded.

Belarus’s Call for Access to Green Technologies  

During COP29 in Baku, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko reaffirmed his country’s dedication to meeting its climate commitments.

“Belarus is fully honouring all its obligations to improve the climate situation,” Lukashenko stated in his address. He emphasized the importance of supporting developing countries in gaining access to green technologies without compromising their national security.

By Khagan Isayev