After the COP29 closed in Baku, Azerbaijan, the Democratic Republic of Congo has undoubtedly shone as a leading country in climate discussions. According to Omer Kabasele, head of the Redd, Renovated Climate Working Group, the DRC has been able to position itself as a solution nation at all levels, whether politically, diplomatically or in negotiations.
The results of these meetings mark a step forward, albeit modest, in the context of climate financing. The amount of commitments has increased from 100 billion to 250 billion dollars annually. However, this progression is far from meeting the expectations of countries in the South, who were hoping for a more substantial contribution from countries in the North. While countries in the South were expecting 1,300 billion dollars, only 250 billion were promised.
The question of the nature of this financing is also a source of disagreement. The Global South does not want these funds to be seen as mere aid, while the Global North uses this term to describe them. This debate highlights the divergences in visions and objectives between the different regions of the world in terms of climate finance.
Beyond the figures and promises, these negotiations reveal the international tensions and stakes related to the fight against climate change. The discussions underline the need for collaboration and global solidarity to achieve the objectives of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate change.
COP29 has thus highlighted the challenges that the international community faces in its quest for a more sustainable future. The debates and discords mark the first steps on a long road towards building a global consensus on climate. Let us hope that these exchanges will stimulate action and cooperation between nations to protect our planet and ensure a viable future for future generations.