The 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29), to be held in Baku, Azerbaijan from November 11–22, will focus heavily on climate finance and the countries’ updated national climate action plans. Themed ‘In Solidarity for a Green World,’ the conference’s priorities will include enhancing ambition, enabling action, ensuring inclusivity, and delivering equitable outcomes. Mukhtar Babayev, Azerbaijan's Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, will preside over the conference, while Samir Nuriyev will head the Organizing Committee.
A key determinant of the success of COP29 agenda will be the establishment of the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance (NCQG), a central component of the Paris Agreement aimed at setting a more ambitious and realistic financial framework to support developing nations in their climate actions post-2025. The NCQG builds on the previous $100 billion target set in 2009 and seeks to address persistent gaps in climate finance, ensuring that the funds are accessible, equitable, and aligned with the specific needs of developing countries. As a top priority for the COP29 Presidency, developed nations are expected to take the lead in mobilising resources through various channels, fostering global partnerships, trust, and cooperation essential for the successful implementation of the Paris Agreement.
Azerbaijan’s presidency has emphasised the need to finalise a deal on the NCQG, focusing on developing countries and island states. The discussions will also highlight the importance of achieving just transitions in line with the 1.5°C global temperature target.
India, as a key player in the Global South, will play a significant role in shaping the discussions at COP29, particularly on climate finance. India has consistently advocated for a clear agreement on how developed countries will share the burden of providing climate finance to developing countries. India is pushing for $1 trillion per year, but developed nations are reluctant to shoulder the burden alone, putting pressure on expanding the contributor base. India’s stance is rooted in the principle of ‘common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities,’ which asserts that developed nations should take greater responsibility in mobilising financial resources to support developing countries. India has also argued that the conference’s success should be evaluated based on whether developed countries meet their financial commitments. Indian negotiators have stressed that future climate finance goals should align with the Paris Agreement, which emphasises equity and sustainable development.
At COP29, India will continue to push for climate finance commitments that are adequate, transparent, and equitable. The country is also expected to advocate for the inclusion of the loss and damage fund, established at COP28, in the new climate finance target. As one of the leading voices for developing nations, India’s involvement will be critical in ensuring that the outcomes of COP29 reflect the needs and priorities of the Global South.
