When COP29 concluded in Baku, it was not with promises of a bright future, but with a bitter aftertaste that François Gemenne, a recognized expert on climate issues, expressed his mixed feelings. Between funding far below expectations for developing countries and a hesitant consensus on the crucial issue of fossil fuels, the assessment of this global meeting sparked more disillusionment than concrete hopes.
The COP29, which has just concluded in Baku, left a bitter feeling of failure, exacerbating the anger of François Gemenne, a well-known researcher in the environmental field. The summit highlighted financial shortcomings, with developing countries receiving only 300 billion dollars instead of the 1300 billion requested. Furthermore, he laments the lack of progress on phasing out fossil fuels, blaming the role of Gulf countries and China. Gemenne also criticizes the choice of Baku as the meeting place, pointing out its lack of legitimacy and experience in international negotiations. According to him, it is imperative to consider more pragmatic solutions, such as rapidly mobilizing 10 billion dollars and involving the private sector for the energy transition of Southern countries.
françois gemenne responds to the results of COP29
François Gemenne, a key figure in environmental issues, did not hide his frustration following the COP29 that recently took place in Baku. According to him, this edition was marked by a sense of failure, fueled by the absence of concrete solutions, particularly regarding financing for developing countries. These countries hoped for support of 1300 billion dollars but had to settle for 300 billion, a widely insufficient amount to meet the immense climate challenges they face.
analysis on the position of developed countries
The intransigence displayed by certain developed countries, like those from the Gulf and China, has contributed to the stagnation of discussions on fossil fuels. This refusal to side with Northern nations has heightened tensions among the different parties. Gemenne emphasizes that COP has been drowned in what he describes as “carpet merchant discussions.” He also criticizes the strategy adopted by the conference which, according to him, should have mobilized immediate funding and involved the private sector in the energy transition of Southern countries.
reflections on future perspectives
Despite the prevailing disappointment, François Gemenne tries to envision the next steps with a glimmer of hope. He believes that a bad agreement, while disappointing, is better than no agreement at all, as it keeps negotiations ongoing and maintains focus on the climate emergency. Eyes now turn towards the next COP scheduled in Brazil in 2025, a venue that promises to focus on crucial issues such as deforestation and agriculture. He urges for rigorous preparation and a more pragmatic approach to the vast climate challenges that continue to weigh on all nations. Gemenne hopes that this spirit will guide leaders in their future commitments and actions. For more about Gemenne’s climatopragmatic perspective, check out the article here.
