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Nazrin Abdul

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At the COP29 Leaders Summit of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), UN Secretary-General António Guterres delivered a passionate address, condemning the disproportionate impact of climate change on vulnerable island nations and urging the global community to take immediate, decisive action to prevent further harm, Azernews reports.

In his speech, Guterres acknowledged the deep frustration of Small Island Developing States, who are on the front lines of climate change, facing rising sea levels, more intense hurricanes, and widespread economic devastation. “You have every right to be angry. I am too,” he said. “This is an injustice perpetrated by the few, with the G20 nations responsible for around 80% of global emissions.”

The Secretary-General emphasized the urgent need for a collective global effort to curb emissions and protect those most at risk, stating that the world must “follow the lead” of these nations, who are already demonstrating climate ambition and resilience. He reiterated the critical importance of keeping global warming below 1.5°C, calling for global emissions to decrease by at least 9% annually until 2030 and for a rapid, fair phase-out of fossil fuels.

Guterres also stressed the need for the developed world to honor commitments made to support SIDS in dealing with the effects of climate change. “You deserve support to deal with a crisis you have done next to nothing to create,” he remarked, calling for the replenishment of the Loss and Damage Fund to assist these countries in addressing the growing impacts of climate change.

The UN Secretary-General also highlighted the financial constraints faced by SIDS, who are grappling with high levels of debt, rising prices, and the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. He pointed to the “Pact for the Future,” a key initiative adopted in September, which calls for a fundamental reform of the international financial system, debt relief, and a $500 billion annual SDG Stimulus.

Guterres underscored the need for a comprehensive climate finance framework that would mobilize the necessary trillions to support climate action and sustainable development in developing countries. This framework, he argued, should involve innovative financing mechanisms, such as levies on aviation, shipping, and fossil fuel extraction, and include reforms to Multilateral Development Banks to improve access to affordable financing for vulnerable nations.

Concluding his remarks, Guterres appealed to SIDS leaders to continue their advocacy for climate justice, using their moral authority to demand the action that is urgently needed. “Together, you are helping us move from anger to action,” he said. “And together, I know we can win.”

The call to action comes as COP29 enters its critical discussions on global climate goals, with world leaders under increasing pressure to fulfill promises made under the Paris Agreement and take meaningful steps toward addressing the climate crisis.