AOSIS Chair Cedric Schuster Talks Negotiations at COP29

Vonbon Hill

2 min read

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23-11-2024

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The 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is underway, and the stakes are undeniably high. Negotiations are complex, fraught with tension, and hinge on the delicate balance between ambition and practicality. To gain insight into the current state of affairs, we spoke with Cedric Schuster, Chair of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), a crucial voice in these critical discussions.

The Pressing Urgency of Climate Action for Small Island Developing States (SIDS)

Schuster emphasized the existential threat climate change poses to AOSIS member states. "For us, this isn't about future projections; it's about immediate realities," he stated. Rising sea levels, intensified storms, and ocean acidification are not distant threats but present dangers impacting livelihoods, infrastructure, and the very survival of these nations. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. The impacts are already devastating, forcing displacement, disrupting economies, and eroding cultural heritage.

Key Demands and Negotiating Strategies

AOSIS is advocating for several key demands at COP29. These include:

• Strengthened Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs): AOSIS is pushing for significantly more ambitious emissions reduction targets from all nations, particularly major emitters. The current pledges fall far short of what's needed to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, the threshold beyond which many SIDS face irreversible damage.

• Increased Climate Finance: Securing adequate and accessible climate finance is paramount for SIDS to adapt to the unavoidable impacts of climate change and build resilience. This includes funding for loss and damage, a crucial component addressing irreversible losses already experienced by vulnerable nations.

• Enhanced Technology Transfer: Access to clean technologies and renewable energy solutions is essential for SIDS to transition to sustainable economies. AOSIS is calling for accelerated technology transfer and capacity building from developed nations.

• Effective Implementation Mechanisms: The effectiveness of COP agreements hinges on robust implementation mechanisms. AOSIS is advocating for clear, measurable, and accountable processes to ensure that commitments are translated into tangible action.

Navigating the Complexities of International Negotiations

Schuster acknowledged the inherent challenges in multilateral negotiations, highlighting the diverse interests and priorities of participating nations. He stressed the importance of collaboration and compromise to reach meaningful agreements that reflect the urgency and scale of the climate crisis. "We need a global effort," he emphasized, "where developed nations take responsibility for their historical emissions and support vulnerable nations in their adaptation and mitigation efforts."

Looking Ahead: Hope and Determination

Despite the daunting challenges, Schuster expressed a cautious optimism. "The momentum is building," he stated. "There's a growing recognition of the urgency and the severity of the crisis. While the path ahead is still challenging, the determination among SIDS and their allies is unwavering. We will continue to fight for a future where our islands and our people can thrive." The upcoming days of COP29 will be crucial in determining whether this determination translates into tangible progress. The world watches with bated breath.