Press Release
Dhaka, 18 December 2023: Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has positively viewed the announcement of 'transitioning away' from fossil fuels and the initiation of Loss and Damage fund in the COP 28 in Dubai. However, the organisation has raised concerns regarding the timing, implementation, and actual benefits reaching the countries like Bangladesh, which mainly bear the brunt of climate change impacts.
Simultaneously, TIB has expressed disappointment over the absence of significant decisions concerning augmentation and timely disbursement of the adaptation fund for the nations affected by climate change.
The initial draft resolution of the conference proposed a 'phasing out' of fossil fuel use. However, under the apparent influence of the fossil fuel lobby, the commitment did not persist in the final agreement. Instead, the conference fulfilled its obligation with a non-binding, unspecified declaration of a gradual transition from fossil fuel dependence by 2050, aiming to achieve the net-zero carbon emission target.
Despite discussions of a 'phased-out' scenario by 2050, the final agreement lacks a specific timetable or roadmap. Moreover, the announcement of US$650 million for the Loss and Damage fund provides no clear indication of the tangible benefits it will bring to the countries like Bangladesh.
In a press release issued to the media, TIB Executive Director Dr. Iftekharuzzaman said, “The historic declaration by the representatives of 200 countries in the Climate Conference to phase out fossil fuels by 2050 is commendable. However, the final agreement on its implementation intentionally contains linguistic ambiguity and errors. Specifically, the use of terms like 'adequate,' 'orderly,' and 'reasonable' without explanation, and the omission of a clear short, medium, and long-term roadmap for phasing out the fossil fuels, is a cause for concern.”
“While there is discussion about staying abreast of scientific advancements, it is disheartening that the developed countries have not fulfilled their financial obligations as promised over the past thirty years. Additionally, there is no legal obligation to comply with the two declarations, creating a situation akin to having no barriers for expansion of the fossil fuel sector. It is not unreasonable to expect that the launching of the Loss and Damage fund will be nothing more than an eyewash.” Dr. Zaman further said that there was an initial expectation for a concrete announcement to halt the use of coal. However, vague declarations were made using wordplay in the agreement, allowing for continued use of coal. This outcome is perceived as a success for the fossil fuel companies.
He mentioned that the agreement's final document that recognises an annual need for an adaptation fund for the developing countries. However, in reality, when funded, it is seen otherwise. He also termed the decision regarding climate change adaptation as 'unacceptably weak.' The developed countries have consistently failed to fulfil their commitment to pay $100 billion every year from 2020, but there is no specific decision or roadmap in this regard.
The TIB ED noted, “The wealthy nations have committed a mere $650 million in disaster relief funds for supporting the developing countries, which falls significantly short of the needs of the affected nations. There are no specific guidelines in place regarding the administration of this fund and the process for the affected countries to receive and disburse the funds promptly.” “Despite strong opposition from the developing and affected countries, the World Bank has been assigned with the task of interim management and administration of the fund along with trusteeship responsibilities. This poses a significant challenge to establishing ownership of the Loss and Damage fund for the affected countries,” he added.
TIB urges Bangladesh to take a more proactive stance by addressing the following issues: halting unethical interference by energy sector lobbyists and influencers, promoting collaboration among all the stakeholders concerned to ensure sufficient funding for adaptation and mitigation, and establishing clear roadmaps for mitigation efforts.
Media contact:
Sheikh Manjur-E-Alam
Director, Outreach and Communication
Phone: +88024102126770
Email: manjur@ti-bangladesh.org
