India’s presence at COP29 marked a crucial moment in the ongoing global discourse on climate change. As one of the most populous countries and a key player in global climate talks, India’s stance on climate equity, financial commitments, and the need for a just transition resonated deeply with the Global South. At COP29, India voiced its concerns on several fronts, notably on the issue of unilateral trade measures, the failure of developed countries to meet their financial promises, and the pressing need for enhanced access to green technologies.
Unilateral Trade Measures and Their Impact on Developing Countries
One of the most significant concerns India raised at COP29 was the increasing use of unilateral trade measures, particularly carbon tariffs, by developed countries. These measures, such as the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), impose a financial burden on developing countries and hinder their access to global markets. For India, which has a rapidly growing industrial base and is striving to maintain economic growth while transitioning to a greener economy, such tariffs could prove to be a major barrier.
India pointed out that these unilateral measures are not only unjust but also counterproductive. They undermine global cooperation by creating divisions between nations and fostering an environment of distrust. India urged that climate policies should not be used as a tool for protectionism but should instead be aligned with the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities. By imposing trade barriers, developed nations risk exacerbating the economic challenges already faced by developing countries, making it even harder for them to finance their transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy.
The Need for Climate Finance: Holding Developed Countries Accountable
Another key issue that India emphasized at COP29 was the pressing need for climate finance. In line with the Paris Agreement, developed countries had pledged to provide $100 billion annually to help developing countries tackle climate change and adapt to its impacts. However, India pointed out that these financial commitments have yet to be fully met, leaving many nations in the Global South without the necessary resources to address the worsening impacts of climate change.
India’s representatives stressed that the failure to deliver on climate finance undermines the spirit of global solidarity and cooperation. Without adequate financial support, countries like India, which are already grappling with the dual challenge of economic development and climate change, cannot adequately address the mounting threats posed by extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and resource scarcity. India called on developed countries to fulfill their financial obligations promptly and consistently, urging that the funds be made available in a transparent and accountable manner.
Additionally, India highlighted the need for greater access to technology to enable the transition to renewable energy sources. While developing nations face the brunt of climate change, they also often lack the technological capacity to mitigate its impacts. India called for enhanced technology transfer mechanisms that would allow developing countries to leapfrog carbon-intensive development models and move toward greener alternatives. Access to such technologies is crucial for countries in the Global South, who face unique challenges in implementing climate solutions that are affordable, scalable, and sustainable.
Climate Justice: A Just Transition for All
India’s advocacy at COP29 also revolved around the concept of a “just transition.” A just transition ensures that the shift to a low-carbon economy does not leave behind vulnerable populations, particularly in developing nations. India’s position is clear: the global transition to clean energy must take into account the developmental needs of the Global South and be inclusive of all nations, regardless of their stage of development.
India emphasized that historical emissions have largely come from developed nations, and it is they who have the greatest responsibility in mitigating climate change. As the world’s largest emitter per capita in the Global South, India’s contribution to global emissions is minimal compared to developed countries, yet it faces disproportionate challenges in adapting to climate change. India called for the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities to be respected in all climate negotiations, ensuring that developed countries contribute more to both emissions reductions and climate finance.
The Road Ahead: Multilateral Cooperation and Global Unity
In her remarks at COP29, India’s delegation reaffirmed that tackling climate change requires multilateral cooperation, not fragmented unilateral actions. India called for a more inclusive approach to climate action, where the voices of developing countries are not just heard but given the prominence they deserve. The country emphasized that the solution to the climate crisis lies not in dividing the world into “polluters” and “victims” but in fostering collective action where every nation contributes according to its capacity.
India also reiterated the need for strong and transparent monitoring mechanisms to ensure that climate promises are kept, particularly in terms of financial commitments. While the Global South has been doing its part, India reminded the global community that sustainable development and climate action cannot proceed without fair contributions from developed nations.
As COP29 concluded, India’s call for equity in climate action reverberated across the global stage. India’s efforts to bridge the gap between the Global South and North, its push for financial commitments, and its insistence on the importance of technology transfer for sustainable development all pointed to a future where climate action is equitable, just, and inclusive.
India’s Leadership at COP29
India’s advocacy at COP29 reinforced its role as a global leader in the fight against climate change. By championing the causes of climate justice, financial accountability, and technological access, India has underscored its commitment to ensuring that the transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy is inclusive and fair. As the world faces increasingly severe climate impacts, India’s call for cooperation, fairness, and equity remains a guiding light for future climate negotiations.
Saathee Global
