By At the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), India made a compelling case for climate justice, underlining the need for an equitable and inclusive approach to combat climate change. As one of the world’s largest emerging economies, India’s position at the negotiations carried significant weight, especially in championing the issues facing developing nations. The country used this platform to address the inequities inherent in current global climate actions, calling for stronger international cooperation, financial commitments from developed nations, and the removal of trade barriers that disproportionately affect the Global South.
Challenging Unilateral Trade Measures
India raised strong objections to the rising trend of unilateral trade measures, especially the imposition of carbon tariffs, which can burden developing countries. One of the most discussed trade measures at COP29 was the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which taxes imports based on the carbon content of the goods. While such measures are designed to reduce carbon emissions in developed economies, they present significant challenges for developing nations, which often lack the infrastructure or financial resources to meet stringent emission reduction targets.
India’s delegation pointed out that carbon tariffs undermine fair competition, especially for countries like India that are still in the process of industrialization and have large energy needs. These measures, if left unchecked, could exacerbate economic disparities between developed and developing countries, making it harder for emerging economies to grow sustainably.
India’s stance at COP29 was clear: Climate action cannot be achieved through isolationist policies. Rather, the country advocated for an approach based on international cooperation and a global agreement that balances environmental goals with economic growth in developing countries.
The Unmet Promise of Climate Finance
Climate finance has been a cornerstone of climate negotiations, with developed nations pledging to provide $100 billion annually to assist developing countries. However, these promises have largely gone unfulfilled, and COP29 was no exception. India used this platform to remind developed countries of their financial obligations, which have not been met despite repeated calls for action over the years.
India’s representatives emphasized that the absence of adequate climate finance has created a significant barrier for developing nations seeking to reduce their emissions, adapt to climate impacts, and build climate-resilient infrastructure. The lack of funding means that countries like India have to rely on debt-heavy financing mechanisms, which can impede their long-term development.
India’s call for climate finance to be delivered transparently and predictably was echoed by many developing nations at COP29. The country advocated for a climate finance framework that ensures funding is accessible to all nations, particularly those most vulnerable to climate impacts. Furthermore, India stressed that financial support must go beyond loans and include grants and other non-debt-based mechanisms.
Technology Transfer: A Key to Climate Equity
Another critical issue raised by India at COP29 was the need for easier access to green technologies. Developing countries like India often struggle to implement large-scale renewable energy projects due to high costs and intellectual property barriers. India has long called for the removal of intellectual property protections that prevent the free flow of green technologies, such as solar panels, wind turbines, and battery storage systems, to developing countries.
At COP29, India reaffirmed its stance on the need for technology transfer that is both affordable and scalable. This access to cutting-edge green technologies is seen as essential for countries to transition to a low-carbon economy without sacrificing economic growth. India’s call for technology transfer was not just limited to renewable energy but also encompassed sectors like agriculture, waste management, and climate-resilient infrastructure.
A Just Transition for All Nations
India also emphasized the importance of a “just transition” to a green economy. A just transition ensures that no one is left behind as the world moves toward cleaner energy sources. This concept goes beyond simply reducing carbon emissions and focuses on the social, economic, and political dimensions of the transition process.
India pointed out that while the world must reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, this shift should not negatively impact vulnerable communities or workers employed in carbon-intensive industries. For India, a just transition means that workers in sectors like coal mining, oil, and gas, and those who are economically dependent on these industries, must be provided with alternative livelihoods and opportunities.
Moreover, India stressed that a just transition involves creating social safety nets for the most vulnerable populations. These communities, who often contribute the least to climate change, are among the most impacted by its consequences. India’s call for inclusivity in the transition process resonated with many other developing nations at COP29.
India’s Commitment to Global Climate Cooperation
India’s advocacy at COP29 reinforced its commitment to addressing climate change while ensuring that the interests of developing nations are not sidelined. The country’s strong stance on climate finance, technology transfer, and trade justice highlights the need for a global response that considers the unique challenges faced by the Global South. As the world moves forward in the fight against climate change, India’s call for international cooperation, fairness, and equity will remain central to the ongoing climate conversation.
India’s leadership at COP29 exemplified its role as a voice for the developing world in global climate negotiations, reaffirming its commitment to an inclusive and fair climate framework that benefits all nations, regardless of their economic status or historical contribution to climate change.
