BEING THE TEXT OF A PRESS CONFERENCE ON THE OUTCOMES OF COP28 DELIVERED ON 19th DECEMBER 2023 BY COALITION OF CLIMATE FOCUSED NIGERIAN CSOs LED BY CENTRE FOR 21ST CENTURY ISSUES(C21st) SOCIETY FOR PLANET AND PROSPERITY (SPP) AND ENVIRONEWS DEVELOPMENT NETWORK(EndNet)

INTRODUCTION

The Centre for 21^st century Issues (C21st), Society for Planet and Prosperity and Evironews Development Network (EndNet) with support from Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), British High Commission in partnership with Nigeria Climate Justice Alliance mobilized the participation of over Two Hundred and Fifty Civil Society organizations in Nigeria to participate in COP28. The CSOs were organized and guided to make meaningful contributions to COP28 negotiations and participation in relevant side events that promote climate justice and collaborative efforts at ending the climate crisis.

NIGERIAN CSOs PARTICIPATION IN COP28

Nigerian civil society organizations (CSOs) played an active role in the participation of COP28, which took place from November 30th to December 12th. Throughout the conference, Nigerian CSOs closely followed the negotiations and actively engaged in the Global Day of Action on climate change, even until the final hours of COP28. They worked closely with relevant actors, including, International NGOs Development Partners and representatives from developing countries such as the African Group of Negotiators, to ensure that the decisions made at COP28 were ambitious and included critical considerations raised by those who are most affected by climate change in developing countries. They advocated for the delivery of essential financial support to address the impacts of climate change and demanded ambitious outcomes from COP28 that align with the 1.5-degree temperature goal

The participation of Nigerian CSOs in COP28 helped give a voice to those communities and regions that are most vulnerable to climate change. They contributed to the collective efforts of non-state actors and negotiators in calling for ambitious and equitable climate action that considers the unique challenges faced by developing countries.

OVERREACHING COMMENTS ON COP28 DECISIONS AND NIGERIA’S PARTICIPATION

The Nigerian civil society organizations (CSOs) welcomed the final decisions made at COP28, including the operationalization of loss and damage funds, Global Stocktake, Adaptation Goal, Climate Finance, the phase-out of fossil fuels, the tripling of renewable energy uptake, declarations on health and climate, declaration on sustainable agriculture, resilient food systems and climate action, just transition, among others. These decisions were seen as positive steps towards addressing climate change.

The Nigerian CSOs now urge parties to quickly translate these decisions into concrete climate actions on the ground, ensuring that those most impacted by climate change have a chance to survive. While acknowledging the financial pledges made during COP28 across various negotiation streams, the CSOs recognized that the current level of pledges is insufficient to effectively respond to climate change. They call on developed country parties to increase their financial commitments and promptly fulfill their pledges to accelerate climate action on the ground.

The Nigerian CSOs firmly believe that the strength of the COP28 decisions lies in the consistent and continuous actions taken by parties to implement these decisions and deliver on their financial commitments. They emphasize the importance of immediate action and urge all relevant stakeholders to prioritize implementation to effectively address the climate crisis.

Nigeria’s civil society organizations (CSOs) appreciate the commitment of Nigeria’s Government in participating actively in COP28. We commend the Nigerian team, led by the president and state governors, for adopting a result-oriented approach in mobilizing climate finance and engaging in bilateral negotiations to garner support for climate action in Nigeria. Additionally, we strongly urge the Nigerian Government to maintain its crucial leadership and political will in the sphere of climate governance. By doing so, Nigeria can create an enabling environment for multi-sector collaboration, which is essential for effective implementation of climate initiatives within the country.

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IMPLICATIONS OF FOSSIL FUEL PHASE OUT FOR NIGERIA

The Nigerian civil society organizations (CSOs) are acutely aware of the implications of the fossil fuel phase-out for Nigeria and the urgent need to transition to renewable energy sources. As one of Africa’s largest oil producers, Nigeria faces unique challenges and opportunities in navigating this transition.

Nigeria has long relied on oil revenues, which comprise a significant portion of its GDP. Therefore, Nigeria must carefully balance the goal of sustaining its economy while divesting from fossil fuels. This requires comprehensive planning and a multi-faceted approach. However, the phase-out of fossil fuels also presents an opportunity for economic diversification. Nigeria can shift its focus towards renewable energy, especially with the recent removal of fuel subsidies. The launch of Nigeria’s Long-Term Mitigation and Low Carbon Development Strategy demonstrates the country’s careful planning for divestment from fossil fuels. These strategies provide a framework for fostering public-private collaborations, which can attract necessary financial resources, expertise, and technological advancements for a successful transition.

Through the implementation of the Long-Term Mitigation and Low Carbon Development Strategy, Nigeria can attract investment in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power sectors. This will help build a more resilient economy, create employment opportunities, protect the environment, and enhance the well-being of its citizens. Transitioning to renewable energy sources is not only crucial for Nigeria’s long-term economic stability but also essential for addressing climate change on a global scale.

The phase-out of fossil fuels also underscores the importance of intensifying nature-based solutions to address climate change impacts. Solutions such as reforestation, afforestation, sustainable agriculture, agroforestry, and sustainable land management can effectively tackle various environmental challenges and mitigate climate impacts, while offering multiple benefits to communities and biodiversity to build a resilient future for all.

It is important to note that the fossil fuel phase-out is part of a just transition, which requires adequate financing. Nigerian CSOs call upon development partners, multilateral development banks, and climate finance institutions to support Nigeria in its transition by providing the necessary financial resources to navigate this transition successfully. By receiving support, Nigeria can achieve a just transition that enhances sustainable development and promotes climate resilience.

THE ROLE OF CIVIL SOCIETY

As CSOs we are well aware of our role in ensuring the implementation of COP28 decision in Nigeria. We will work with relevant stakeholders to raise awareness about the environmental, social, and economic implications of fossil fuels phase out, the benefits of renewable energy uptake and other critical COP28 decisions and urge government to domesticate the decisions as appropriate. 

We will monitor the actions of government and corporations to ensure that they are taking concrete steps towards incorporating COP28 decisions in their operations as appropriate. We will push for transparency, adherence to climate commitments, implementation of renewable energy policies, enforcement of environmental regulations and the reduction of harmful practices associated with fossil fuel exploration.

DESTRUCTION OF URBAN FOREST AT AGODI GARDENS IN IBADAN

As climate focused CSOs, we are totally against the destruction of the Agodi Gardens in Ibadan by the Governor Seyi Makinde led Oyo State Government.

We condemn this wanton destruction of our common heritage. We consider the development regrettable and highly unacceptable.

The UN Biodiversity had declared this decade as one for Ecosytems Restoration, and we consider the destruction of trees that have been standing for decades as going against the convention Nigeria has signed unto.

Destroying such a very important habitat in a big city like Ibadan goes against every known norm of living in harmony with nature. While other cities are bringing back greenery into their space for the health benefits, climate change mitigation and environmental restoration, it is regrettable that the Oyo State Government is doing the exact opposite.

We call on Governor Seyi Makinde to urgently halt this act of environmental degradation.

  LOOKING AHEAD

Nigerian CSOs will Continue follow the Climate change negotiations and other follow up meetings at the international and regional level to implement COP28 decisions.  A COP28 Lessons learnt meeting will be convened sometime in January 2024 to share critical lessons from COP28 and capture feedbacks from relevant stakeholders to improve on CSOs participation in COPs.

CONCLUSION

Over the years, Nigerian civil society organizations (CSOs) have been actively involved in addressing climate change issues at all levels. Moving forward, we remain committed to fulfilling our role by advocating for the voices of the underprivileged, marginalized groups, women, and youth to be heard and considered in climate change responses. We understand the importance of inclusivity and will strive to ensure that the concerns and perspectives of these vulnerable communities are effectively integrated into climate actions and policies.

Thank you for your attention

Titilope Ngozi Akosa – Executive Director Centre for 21^st century Issues

For the convening Organizations   

Nigeria CSOs Demonstrate Strong Commitment to Climate Action at COP28

Dubai, December 6, 2023

The first half of COP28 negotiations and events were held from November 30th to December 6. 2023, saw an active and impactful participation of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) from Nigeria. During the first half, Nigerian CSOs actively engaged in approximately 30 side events, with representatives delivering impactful speeches on various climate-related topics.

The mobilization of CSOs at COP28, led by the Centre for 21^st Century Issues (C21st), Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP), and Environews Development Network (Endenet) with support from Foreign, Commonwealth and Department Office (FCDO), British High Commission (BHC) in partnership with the Nigeria Climate Justice Alliance (NCJA) has been remarkably phenomenal. The collaboration between these organizations has continued to facilitate daily briefings and regular updates for CSOs on the ongoing negotiations and events at COP28. This enabled the Nigerian CSOs to stay abreast of all streams of developments and make their voices heard and visible.

One notable highlight of the first half was the invitation extended to the CSOs leadership to participate in the first-ever Nigeria Day celebration at COP28. During this momentous occasion, the Nigerian CSOs position was successfully conveyed to Dr. Salisu Dahiru, the Director-General of the Nigerian Climate Change Commission (NCCC). The Director General, who was excited by the activities of the CSOs committed to transmit the CSOs position to the Nigerian President. This recognition of the CSOs’ efforts signifies a new impetus for collaboration and affirms the importance of their role in shaping climate policies and conversations at such a global level.

The positive momentum gained at COP28 will be continued through the remaining days at COP28 and a post-COP28 meeting, which aims to further enhance cooperation between CSOs and the Nigerian government to foster global engagement. This opportunity will also allow for the exploration of new avenues to advance climate action and achieve meaningful progress in addressing the pressing challenges of climate change at the national and subnational level in Nigeria with CSOs as frontiers of development.

The collective efforts displayed so far by Nigerian CSOs at COP28 demonstrate their unwavering commitment to climate action and their determination to contribute to a more sustainable future for Nigeria. These efforts and dedication are commendable and one can only look forward to their continued endeavors in driving positive change in Nigeria and beyond.

Nigeria’s Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) deeply regret the media’s negative portrayal of the country’s delegates to COP28. This portrayal, viewed as misinformation, has the potential to undermine the progress made in opening up the climate space that CSOs have tirelessly fought for over the decades.

It is crucial to note that some Nigerian CSOs have achieved observer status with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This acknowledgment highlights their credibility and expertise in matters related to the climate crisis. As observers, they possess the authority to register participants for COP and actively contribute to shaping the climate agenda.

Nigeria’s Govt Participation:

Nigeria’s Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) commend the Government of Nigeria for its active participation in COP28, marking a significant turning point in the country’s commitment to climate action. For the first time, Nigeria has sent a strong signal to the global community, showcasing its readiness to mobilize climate finance and collaborate with stakeholders to address the impacts of climate change within Nigeria.

During the first week of COP28, Nigeria achieved several notable milestones, marking quick wins in its pursuit of climate action. These achievements include:

1. Launching of Nigeria’s Long term Low Carbon Emission Development Strategy
2. Nigeria Carbon Market Activation
3. Signing of MOU with Siemens
4. Promising Discussions with development partners and investors to mobilize climate finance for Nigeria

Statement on Key Climate Agenda Items

Loss and Damage

Nigerian Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) warmly welcome the early operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund during the first week of COP28. This significant step highlights progress in addressing the losses and damages experienced by communities on the frontlines of climate change. However, Nigerian CSOs emphasize the urgent need for expeditious establishment of the fund’s operational details, particularly the swift submission of pledges. The current pledge of $655 million falls far short of the actual finance required, which amounts to trillions, to adequately address the daily sufferings of affected climate-vulnerable communities.

Adaptation

On the agenda of the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA), Nigerian CSOs advocate for increased efforts to ensure the realization of doubling adaptation finance by 2025. It is imperative that an action plan, clearly outlining the path toward this goal, be developed. While a commitment of $14 billion to adaptation finance has been made, it remains insufficient compared to the actual requirements.

Mitigation

Regarding mitigation, Nigerian CSOs acknowledge the progress made by many countries in delivering Low-Carbon Development and Just Transition strategies. However, they emphasize the importance of incorporating gender equity and addressing existing vulnerabilities and marginalization. It is crucial that the transition to a low-carbon society actively includes and safeguards the rights and well-being of all, particularly the most vulnerable populations and a specific definition of Just Transition for the developing countries.

Climate Finance

Recognizing the vital significance of climate finance, Nigerian CSOs stress that the current pledges are inadequate. The global goal on climate finance requires urgent and serious attention, with the realization of fair and realistic metrics that can effectively address the world’s response to climate change. Adequate financing is the lifeblood of climate action, and urgent action is needed to achieve the scale required.

Conclusion

As the negotiations enter the second round, Nigerian CSOs call for concrete action and heightened commitment across all negotiation streams. It is crucial to align the discussions and decisions with the temperature goal outlined in the Paris Agreement and deliver climate finance at a significant scale.

Nigerian CSOs remain steadfast in their dedication to pushing for meaningful outcomes during COP28. They call upon all stakeholders to demonstrate real commitment and take decisive steps to address the pressing challenges of climate change. By working collaboratively, we can build a more sustainable and resilient future for Nigeria and the global community.

Signed

Titilope Gbemisola Akosa

Executive Director

Centre for 21^st Century Issues (C21st)

For Convening organizations

Dubai, December 6, 2023

The first half of COP28 negotiations and events were held from November 30th to December 6. 2023, saw an active and impactful participation of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) from Nigeria. During the first half, Nigerian CSOs actively engaged in approximately 30 side events, with representatives delivering impactful speeches on various climate-related topics.

The mobilization of CSOs at COP28, led by the Centre for 21^st Century Issues (C21st), Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP), and Environews Development Network (Endenet) with support from Foreign, Commonwealth and Department Office (FCDO), British High Commission (BHC) in partnership with the Nigeria Climate Justice Alliance (NCJA) has been remarkably phenomenal. The collaboration between these organizations has continued to facilitate daily briefings and regular updates for CSOs on the ongoing negotiations and events at COP28. This enabled the Nigerian CSOs to stay abreast of all streams of developments and make their voices heard and visible.

One notable highlight of the first half was the invitation extended to the CSOs leadership to participate in the first-ever Nigeria Day celebration at COP28. During this momentous occasion, the Nigerian CSOs position was successfully conveyed to Dr. Salisu Dahiru, the Director-General of the Nigerian Climate Change Commission (NCCC). The Director General, who was excited by the activities of the CSOs committed to transmit the CSOs position to the Nigerian President. This recognition of the CSOs’ efforts signifies a new impetus for collaboration and affirms the importance of their role in shaping climate policies and conversations at such a global level.

The positive momentum gained at COP28 will be continued through the remaining days at COP28 and a post-COP28 meeting, which aims to further enhance cooperation between CSOs and the Nigerian government to foster global engagement. This opportunity will also allow for the exploration of new avenues to advance climate action and achieve meaningful progress in addressing the pressing challenges of climate change at the national and subnational level in Nigeria with CSOs as frontiers of development.

The collective efforts displayed so far by Nigerian CSOs at COP28 demonstrate their unwavering commitment to climate action and their determination to contribute to a more sustainable future for Nigeria. These efforts and dedication are commendable and one can only look forward to their continued endeavors in driving positive change in Nigeria and beyond.

Nigeria’s Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) deeply regret the media’s negative portrayal of the country’s delegates to COP28. This portrayal, viewed as misinformation, has the potential to undermine the progress made in opening up the climate space that CSOs have tirelessly fought for over the decades.

It is crucial to note that some Nigerian CSOs have achieved observer status with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This acknowledgment highlights their credibility and expertise in matters related to the climate crisis. As observers, they possess the authority to register participants for COP and actively contribute to shaping the climate agenda.

Nigeria’s Govt Participation:

Nigeria’s Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) commend the Government of Nigeria for its active participation in COP28, marking a significant turning point in the country’s commitment to climate action. For the first time, Nigeria has sent a strong signal to the global community, showcasing its readiness to mobilize climate finance and collaborate with stakeholders to address the impacts of climate change within Nigeria.

During the first week of COP28, Nigeria achieved several notable milestones, marking quick wins in its pursuit of climate action. These achievements include:

1. Launching of Nigeria’s Long term Low Carbon Emission Development Strategy
2. Nigeria Carbon Market Activation
3. Signing of MOU with Siemens
4. Promising Discussions with development partners and investors to mobilize climate finance for Nigeria

Statement on Key Climate Agenda Items

Loss and Damage

Nigerian Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) warmly welcome the early operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund during the first week of COP28. This significant step highlights progress in addressing the losses and damages experienced by communities on the frontlines of climate change. However, Nigerian CSOs emphasize the urgent need for expeditious establishment of the fund’s operational details, particularly the swift submission of pledges. The current pledge of $655 million falls far short of the actual finance required, which amounts to trillions, to adequately address the daily sufferings of affected climate-vulnerable communities.

Adaptation

On the agenda of the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA), Nigerian CSOs advocate for increased efforts to ensure the realization of doubling adaptation finance by 2025. It is imperative that an action plan, clearly outlining the path toward this goal, be developed. While a commitment of $14 billion to adaptation finance has been made, it remains insufficient compared to the actual requirements.

Mitigation

Regarding mitigation, Nigerian CSOs acknowledge the progress made by many countries in delivering Low-Carbon Development and Just Transition strategies. However, they emphasize the importance of incorporating gender equity and addressing existing vulnerabilities and marginalization. It is crucial that the transition to a low-carbon society actively includes and safeguards the rights and well-being of all, particularly the most vulnerable populations and a specific definition of Just Transition for the developing countries.

Climate Finance

Recognizing the vital significance of climate finance, Nigerian CSOs stress that the current pledges are inadequate. The global goal on climate finance requires urgent and serious attention, with the realization of fair and realistic metrics that can effectively address the world’s response to climate change. Adequate financing is the lifeblood of climate action, and urgent action is needed to achieve the scale required.

Conclusion

As the negotiations enter the second round, Nigerian CSOs call for concrete action and heightened commitment across all negotiation streams. It is crucial to align the discussions and decisions with the temperature goal outlined in the Paris Agreement and deliver climate finance at a significant scale.

Nigerian CSOs remain steadfast in their dedication to pushing for meaningful outcomes during COP28. They call upon all stakeholders to demonstrate real commitment and take decisive steps to address the pressing challenges of climate change. By working collaboratively, we can build a more sustainable and resilient future for Nigeria and the global community.

Signed

Titilope Gbemisola Akosa

Executive Director

Centre for 21^st Century Issues (C21st)

For Convening organizations

Nigerian CSOs storm COP28 to advocate for global climate policy

A delegation of Nigerian civil society groups is currently in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), as they look forward to actively participate in this year’s 28th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which will take place from Thursday, November 30, to Tuesday, December 12, 2023.

The body, led by three non-profit organisations—the Centre for 21st Century Issues (C21st), the EnviroNews Development Network (Endenet), and the Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP), will harmonise the activities of CSOs, governments, and other important stakeholders at this global conference to ensure Nigeria receives the best outcomes that will protect its people from the disruptive effects of climate change.

Supported by the British High Commission (BHC) in Nigeria under a project named “Strengthening Nigeria’s Civil Society Organisations’ Engagement with Global Climate Change Policy,” this group will additionally advocate, lobby, and enhnace communications in order to promote Nigeria’s effective participation in the various COP28 negotiations.

The coalition of environmental rights activists has proposed many strategies for achieving this goal following the COP28 thematic programme and plan of action. One of these tactics is to measure Nigeria’s success during the international meeting by having daily in-person involvement as well as online monitoring and reporting of all the conversations. Others are online advocacy campaigns to engage the public in the several negotiating streams and global days of action to assess the momentum and achievements of the overall goal of COP28.

These discussions, which will centre on specific solutions that need to be scaled up this decade to limit warming to 1.5 degrees, build resilience, and mobilise finance at scale, they hinted further, will help bring together a diverse range of stakeholders around the loss and damage fund, global stocktake, global goals on adaptation and finance, energy transition and renewables, phase down and phase out, as well as agriculture and food systems. The idea is to create an understanding of where the world stands on climate action and support, identify the gaps, and work together to agree on solutions and pathways to 2030 and beyond.

A group of carefully chosen Nigerian journalists and communication experts has been assembled and constituted. They will boost CSO participation with policymakers, gender mainstreaming in the UN climate negotiation, and help spread awareness of the full range of discussions.

Earlier in the project’s first execution phase, the three implementation partners carried out a scoping study on the role and participation of Nigeria’s CSOs in climate change negotiations over the previous two years in order to identify the problems and bridge the gaps to strengthen CSOs’ engagement in global climate change policy at COP28.

The scoping research findings were used to develop a capacity-building programme and to promote pre-COP28 multi-stakeholder conversations with relevant government agencies and climate change institutions.

Beginning on Friday, November 10, and ending on Friday, November 24, the virtual and physical training and knowledge-sharing exercise gave the beneficiaries the tools they required to understand how to navigate the UNFCCC’s multiple negotiation streams, investigate the various negotiation interests, and clearly define Nigeria’s position within the African climate change arena.

Titi Akosa, executive director of C21st, believes that the capacity-building engagement has better prepared Nigerian CSOs to advocate for their interests, impact policy results, broaden their network, and generate meaningful change.

“This timely training programme has equipped climate-focused CSOs in Nigeria with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of UNFCCC negotiations,” she said, emphasising that, if properly informed, CSOs can effectively contribute to global climate policy discussions.

C21st Program Intern Simileoluwa Joshua Adewale Chosen as A Youth Delegate for Climate Justice at COP 28

Simileoluwa Joshua Adewale, the program intern responsible for C21st’s Climate School Club initiative, has been chosen by the Nigeria Climate Justice Alliance (NCJA) as one of their delegates to the United Nations Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) 28th Conference of Parties (COP28). Simileoluwa is one of the Seven Civil Society Climate Justice advocates who are being supported by the National conservation Foundation (NCF) in partnership with the Ford Foundation to participate in COP28. This support aims to enhance the participation, visibility, and engagement of underrepresented groups who are members of the NCJA. Simileoluwa, alongside other selected delegates of NCJA will have the opportunity to meet with world leaders and add their voices to advance the cause of climate Justice.

organized by the Climate Justice Alliance. This includes attending meetings, workshops, and various events where he can contribute meaningfully and participate in fruitful discussions.

Simileoluwa will also join the Youth Constituency of the UNFCCC to advocate for the youth’s issues and concerns in the negotiations and to push for outcomes at COP 28 that prioritize the inclusion of young people in all aspects of climate action.

In addition to these responsibilities, Simileoluwa will be supporting the advocacy efforts of the Centre for 21st Century Issues (C21st), including providing communications assistance in coordinating Nigerian Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) at COP 28. He will also be participating in the #Women4ClimateFinance Campaigns of C21st and engaging in events organized by the women and gender constituency.

Furthermore, Simileoluwa looks forward to the opportunities provided by COP 28 to share his own experiences as a young climate advocate. He is eager to amplify the youth perspective and inspire others with his journey in working towards climate justice.

C21ST @COP23

Centre for 21st Century Issues (C21st) is on ground with other stakeholders who truely  belive in genuine solutions to address the menace of climate change at COP23.

C21st as a member of Women and Gender Constituency will work closely with the feminist bloc, Demand Climate Justice, Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) and ACCESS to influence  lobby  and advocate for a gender just outcomes from the COP23 negotiations.

C21st is committed to pursuing all the key demands of the Women and Gender constituency which includes,  adopt a robust  gender action plan, deliver on finance, Ensure climate solutions are gender just, promote energy democracy and protect ecological food systems among others.

C21st @ the #ClimateMarch COP23

 

Already C21st has  participated in the climate march of 5th November, 2017 under the feminist bloc and also joined the climate warriors at the englande coal mine to offer prayers to the activists. C21st also participated in the WGC stategy meeting which held on 5th of November 2015.

 

WGC Strategy Meeting

 

There are other issues and vents  which are very important to move climate change work at the national level  in Nigeria which will be followed closely.  Some of them are; UNFCCC Gender Action Plan, Climate Law and Governance, climate Change and Agriculture, Sustainable Energy for All,  and climate Finance.

C21st will be active on twitter with important tweet messages. Watch out for our #hashtags  #MindTheGap, #WomenClimateJustice, #OurSolutions and  #WomenDefendCommons

 

 

COP22 SBSTA Closing statement By Women and Gender Constituency

SBSTA Closing – Delivered by Daisy Emoekabu  of Centre for 21st century Issue (c21st) on Nov 14, 2016

Thank you for this opportunity to speak on behalf of the Women and Gender Constituency.

For women, agriculture, forests, and land use in general, are themes that are of crucial importance. We are the majority of the world’s food producers and play a key role in the transformative change that is needed to change current highly polluting industrial models in the agriculture, livestock and forestry sectors into genuinely sustainable and resilient land use initiatives. Such initiatives are often driven by communities on the ground, and it is important climate policies provide appropriate and adequate legal, technical and financial support for such community initiatives.

In this light, we want to express our deep concern about proposals to include agriculture, forest conservation, and land use in general, as offset opportunities in market-based mechanisms and approaches. Due to contextual inequities these market-based approaches will always lead to the marginalization of women, Indigenous Peoples, smallholders and other politically and economically marginalized actors. Moreover, land use related offsets are very unreliable and there are no accurate accounting methodologies for land use change. That is why we vehemently reject the inclusion of land use in carbon markets. We also support the concerns of certain Parties about market-based mechanisms in general.

We are particularly upset about the proposals for an international offsetting mechanism for the emissions produced by the aviation industry, probably the most rapidly growing source of greenhouse gas emissions on the planet. These proposals were deliberately developed outside the framework of the UNFCCC and its Paris Agreement, by a body that was originally established as a technical body, but which has shown clear signs of conflict of interest with the commercial interests of the aviation sector the past years. We cannot allow this body to determine the decision-making processes under the UNFCCC related to such an importance source of emissions, and the best way to deal with it.

We urge the SBSTA, and the other bodies under the Convention, to maintain its integrity and make sound recommendations and decisions based on sound science. Decisions that include a promotion of the so-called bioeconomy, or international commodity trade in agricultural products, are clearly based on commercial interests of certain business actors rather than the rights, needs and interests of common women and men, including the millions of women that produce your food. So we urge Parties to reclaim the UNFCCC and its Paris Agreement as a public instrument that should be steered by public interests based on sound science that is free from conflicts of interests of other industry influence.

Thank You

Message To World Leaders On Earth Day And The Signing of The Paris Climate Agreement

Today, as we celebrate the Earth Day, 2016, World Leaders will gather at the United Nations headquarters in New York to sign the Paris Agreement that was adopted on 12th of December, 2015 at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) 21st  Conference of Parties ( COP21).

It is an epoch making event which not only prepares the ground for other formal processes as required by international law for the agreement to enter into force but it significantly, reminds us that It is our collective responsibility to pursue efforts to limit  temperature increase to 1.5°C for the people and planet to have a chance at survival.

It is a wake up call to #keepFossilFuelsInTheGround, #BreakFreeFromFalseSolutions, #MoveAwayFromDirtyEnergy, embrace clean and 100% renewable energy and set the world on the pathway to climate resilience and sustainability. It is time to strive harder to deliver Climate justice to those who are on the frontlines of climate change, majority of whom are women and children.

World leaders should remember that signing, ratifying is one of the first steps to set the tone for implementation of the agreement. Implementation is key to averting the dangerous consequences of climate change. Bearing in mind that the submitted Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) which is now part of the Paris agreement is not sufficient to limit temperature increase to 1.5°C. We need ambitious policies and actions beyond what is in the NDCs to keep the world safe.

Celebrating the” feat” of reaching the Paris  agreement is good but genuine and  effective actions are better. Genuine leaders act and stand on the side of  the people and the planet.

 Happy Earth Day, 2016

Gbemisola Titilope Akosa
Executive Director
Centre for 21st Century Issues (C21st)

World Leaders Welcome Paris Climate Agreement Amidst Rejection by the Civil Society

The opposing reactions of party delegates and civil society to the new Paris climate Agreement reveals a deep divide in their aspirations and visions for the agreement.

It is ironic that while parties are congratulating themselves for a job well done the civil society is greatly disappointed and condemns the   agreement

The civil society’s grouse with the agreement is that it is  lacking in  ambition, weak and unable to protect  the most vulnerable  from the catastrophic impacts of climate change. A climate agreement that exempt developed countries from liability for loss and damage and set the world on a pathway to 3 degrees warming has little or nothing to do with protecting the people and planet.

Earlier in the day, there were various actions throughout Paris  by the civil society and other stakeholders  to demand climate justice in anticipation of the new  agreement but this did not stop the adoption of the agreement. Though some parties admit that the agreement is not perfect but they believe that it is a step forward in the fight to combat climate change.

Beyond the excitement of leaders here tonight, a lot will depend on the actions that will follow the adoption of this agreement in the following years. Whether this less perfect agreement will lead us to  a resilient, sustainable and  renewable future remains doubtful.

A ‘Non-Paper’ for a ‘Non-Effective’ ‘Non-Just’ ‘Non-Equal’ Climate Agreement

Ahead of ADP2.11 the Women Gender Constituency of the UNFCCC have responded  to  the draft Paris agreement and draft COP decision released by Co-Chairs of the ADP  

below is the text of the press release

 A ‘Non-Paper’ for a ‘Non-Effective’ ‘Non-Just’ ‘Non-Equal’ Climate Agreement

On October 5th 2015, the co-Chairs of the ADP process released a new “Non-Paper” document including a draft of the Paris agreement and a draft of the COP decision, to be both adopted at COP21 in December 2015 in Paris.

The WGC, one of the nine official constituencies accredited to the UNFCCC, comprised of women’s rights, feminist organizations and networks representing thousands of groups and individuals, wants to express its profound concern about this new ‘non-paper’ which aims to act as a basis for negotiations on the new climate agreement.

Having followed the ADP negotiations very closely, this document does not reflect the discussions in a balanced way. Many crucial issues voiced by Parties under the ADP have been glaringly left out. This undermines the promises of the co-Chairs for a Party-driven process, and threatens the collective will to actively engage towards an ambitious and fair agreement. The WGC has highlighted several key issues which must be brought back into the agreement in this upcoming week of negotiations.

1. Deletion of gender equality and human rights in the draft agreement

Since the first session of the ADP, and throughout this year, Parties have made strong calls for human rights and gender equality to act as guiding principles to all actions under the new agreement. In particular, in the last session where the co-Chairs had identified these issues in ‘Part 3’ of their negotiations tool, Parties made clear that they wanted these issues brought back into the agreement. Several Parties raised this in the discussions on the Preamble and in discussions on the General / Objective section. More than 40 Parties expressed their support in having human rights and gender equality expressly mentioned in the Paris agreement. Specifically on gender, three groups of Parties (AILAC, the Environmental Integrity Group and the African Group) alongside 12 individual countries raised their flags to make clear to the co-Facilitators that gender equality must be included under the operative part of the agreement and not just in the preamble or in a decision. Fundamentally, no Party expressed objection to this.

The WGC and many colleagues and allies are therefore concerned and surprised to see that these issues have been completely left out of the co-Chairs non-paper. Gender equality, which had been referenced across all areas of the new agreement, including prominently also in technology and finance sections, is now solely reflected in relation to adaptation. This is neither reflective of Parties views nor the progress/ current mandates which already exist on these issues under the UNFCCC.

2. Does not address the causes of the climate crisis

The unique mention of fossil fuels that was contained in the previous non-paper of the co-Chairs has disappeared in this updated version. With 80% of GHG emissions caused by the burning of fossil fuels and public subsidies to this sector accounting for 700 Billion USD — a multitude of the long-term finance promise of 100 Billion USD per year by 2020 from Copenhagen –, this is a glaring gap that obfuscates one of the systemic causes of the global climate crisis.

Additionally, accountability for mitigation commitments is wholly insufficient, instead prioritizing language on voluntary promises and flexible targets. Commitments made by Parties under the currently submitted INDCs are nowhere near the cuts needed to prevent an increase in the temperatures below 2C. The Geneva text contained an option that referred to a carbon budget, to be divided among countries according to their “historical responsibilities, ecological footprint, capabilities and state of development”. But this too has been omitted from the current non-paper.

The mitigation section doesn’t at all challenge the structural causes of global warming. Wide ranging structural and lifestyle changes, reduction in current consumption and production patterns, and maintenance of ecological sustainability should be at the core of solutions to the climate crisis. Instead, the mitigation section includes false solutions, including the possibility of opting for a long term objective of “net zero” that promotes offsetting mechanisms such as forest plantations for carbon storage at the detriment of the rights of local people and indigenous communities and their livelihoods.

3. Inadequate reflection of CBDR

CBDR is one of the core principles of the UNFCCC. The mandate of the ADP is “to develop a protocol, another legal instrument or an agreed outcome with legal force under the Convention applicable to all Parties”. According to the very mandate of the Paris agreement, the Paris agreement should fully respect the Convention principles. Yet, the language proposed in this new text clearly waters down this core legal principle, allowing developed countries to avoid their responsibilities of providing support to developing countries to both mitigate and adapt to climate change as well as to take the lead globally in ambitious emissions reductions .

CBDR is a critical pillar of multilateralism, framing the nature of the responsibilities of developed and developing countries in the pursuit of sustainable development. It underscores the universality of the Paris agreement as well as the need, on principled and practical grounds, for differentiation of responsibilities between historical and ‘new’ emitters. Universality of the Paris agreement ensures that all states —rich and poor alike—commit to taking concrete actions to meet the ultimate objective of the Convention. CBDR ensures that the share of the responsibilities to take these actions be just and equitable, based on varying and diverse degrees of historical responsibility, national capacity, resources, levels of development and effective influence. Based on this differentiation, developed countries have far greater responsibility to deliver actionable means of implementation across the relevant areas of financial resources, technology and capacity development. The principle of CBDR is therefore not an excuse for inaction on the part of developing countries; it merely contextualizes their responsibilities.

According to this legal principle, the WGC has been advocating for developed countries to provide the means of implementation needed by developing countries to achieve their mitigation emissions reduction target. The new co-Chairs non-paper shifts away the legal responsibility of developed countries and does not mention even once CBRD in relation to mitigation action. Additionally, the only mention of support to developing countries in their shift towards low-emission pathways is now in Article 3 (12) that simply states: ”Developing country Parties are eligible for support in the implementation of this Article”, without addressing whom this support will come from nor any accountability or obligation for these provisions.

4. Insufficient attention to rights-based adaptation

To be relevant, adaptation action must take into account differences between people through a right-based approach, especially in terms of differential risk, adaptation ability, exposure and vulnerability. This includes adopting a gender approach, and we deplore the weakening of the language proposed which now only “acknowledge[s]” this crucial adaptation component, instead of requiring adaptation actions to be “country-driven, gender-sensitive, participatory and fully transparent, take into account vulnerable groups and ecosystems, be based on science and traditional and indigenous knowledge, and promote the engagement of subnational and local authorities and other stakeholders”.

5. Imbalanced reflection on key issues

The current proposal is clearly imbalanced towards the views and perspectives of developed countries, including the critical issue of Loss and Damage. Irreversible loss and damage caused by climate change goes beyond adaptation and is already a reality for many Parties resulting in forced displacement, loss of land and territorial integrity and resulting in breaches of social and economic rights. This is a long-standing developing countries’ priority, and especially for small island states and LDCs, and in the face of the gigaton gap left unreduced by the INDC approach it is even more urgently needed, meanwhile, it is currently only reflected in one paragraph. We reiterate the necessity for loss and damage to be anchored as a standalone element that is separate and distinct from adaptation, and for a special provision to fast-track urgent action required to assist the most affected and vulnerable people that are already experiencing existential threats and human rights violations from climate change.

6. Finance must be new and additional

Climate finance should help developing countries to face the impacts of climate change and to curb their GHG emissions. There is no mention of the fact that climate finance should be new and additional to pre-existing commitments, including ODA and that it has to be delivered in a gender-responsive way (as several Geneva text options had suggested).

Developed countries have committed to disburse $100 billion to developing countries by 2020. Yet the draft text contains no elements that would allow clarity and certainty on a time-table for scaling up from current disbursement levels to the full amount of the money pledged. Nor does it contain any reference to mechanisms to re-evaluate and review fulfilled finance commitments in regular intervals with a view to a significant scaling up of funding beyond 2020 whereas the needs of developing countries are evaluated to be far greater. Instead of clarifying the key role of public finance provision as the core of previous climate finance pledges, the new draft elevates private finance contributions to be counted as part of climate finance, stating “the desirability of a wide variety of sources, public and private, bilateral and multilateral, including alternative sources, noting the need for a diversity of sources and instruments to fit recipients’ changing economic circumstances”. The main goal of private finance is fundamentally to profit private corporations interests – some of them, the “carbon majors”, collectively responsible for worst contributions to the climate crisis -, not to genuinely support affected communities to cope with climate change. However, the issue of innovative finance sources, such as a carbon levy of corporate polluters, is not further developed. The new draft also allows climate finance to be disbursed in the forms of debt-creating mechanisms, adding further burden to the already highly indebted developing country economies.

7. Technology must be safe, appropriate and environmentally, economically and socially sound

The current co-Chairs non-paper is missing several critical elements which had been raised in the Geneva discussions under the ADP. For the WGC, this particularly includes mandates in the new agreement on the quality of the technologies which will be implemented to advance climate action, calling for “safe, appropriate and environmentally, economically and socially sound adaptation and mitigation technologies.” This language from the Geneva text needs to be brought back into the language of the agreement as well as language in regard to gender-differentiated technology needs and traditional technologies already used by local communities, including women.

We are also missing progressive language on assessment of appropriate technologies, such as language proposed in Geneva: “Technology assessment to ensure civil society participation with a gender perspective, and integrate a multilateral, independent and participatory evaluation of technologies for their social, economic and environmental impacts.”

The WGC has been actively monitoring the ADP and we have heard a number of countries – most of them developing countries – supporting the points raised here.

We have heard countries that refuse to give up as our civilization is facing one of the biggest challenges ever. We have heard countries that are asking for the ones that created the damage to repair it. We have heard countries that value enough human rights and gender equality to strive for them in every future climate actions designed and implemented.

When will the process hear and reflect these view?

-The Women and Gender Constituency

Women and Gender Constituency : Position Paper on the 2015 New Climate Agreement

June 1 2015

A just and gender-responsive climate agreement can take different forms, but fundamentally it will; respect and promote human rights and gender equality: ensure sustainable development and environmental integrity; require fair, equitable, ambitious and binding mitigation commitments in line with the principles of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR); call for urgent and prioritized adaptation action and resources that respond to the most vulnerable countries, communities and populations; demand a sustainable energy paradigm that prioritizes safe, decentralized renewable energy systems that benefit people and communities; ensure adequate, new, additional and predictable climate finance for developing countries; provide resources to reconcile loss and damage already incurred from climate inaction; and, ensure full, inclusive and gender-equitable public participation in decision-making, with increased mandatory ex-ante and periodic human rights and gender equality impact assessments. It must ensure that gender equality, equal access to decision making, and benefit sharing are integrated into all its provisions, including through gender-responsive means of implementation. Sex and gender disaggregated data and analysis of the underlying causes of any gender disparities must be mainstreamed in all information, communication and reporting systems.

READ the full WGC Position Paper on the 2015 Climate Agreement  http://womengenderclimate.org/

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