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The Global Stocktake : What is at stake for the African continent?
The forthcoming Conference of the Parties (COP28) is generating significant excitement due to the introduction of the Global Stocktake, a pivotal element of the Paris Agreement. The Global Stocktake is a crucial process that evaluates collective progress towards meeting the climate goals of the Paris Agreement every five years. As the first-ever stocktake approaches, its outcomes have the potential to shape the narrative of climate action for the next decade and beyond. This article explores what the Global Stocktake entails and why it holds great significance for Africa and the world at large.
The Global Stocktake: A Game Changer for Climate Action
The Global Stocktake is not merely an accountability tool; it is a mechanism designed to expedite global climate action. While reports suggest that country and corporate climate commitments are falling short, the Stocktake aims to accelerate the transition towards a sustainable and secure future.
The Importance for Africa
The Global Stocktake holds critical importance for the African continent. Despite being home to 17% of the world’s population, Africa contributes only about 4% to global greenhouse gas emissions. However, Africa is disproportionately affected by climate change, experiencing increased droughts, floods, and other weather-related disasters that impact food security and socio-economic development. The Global Stocktake provides Africa with a platform to raise its unique climate concerns and advocate for climate justice.
Addressing Africa’s Unique Vulnerabilities
Getting the Global Stocktake right is pivotal not only for COP28 but also for shaping future stocktakes and climate action over the next decade. This process must demand specific actions from Government leaders and private institutions. Africa faces high stakes due to its rapidly growing population and economies that heavily rely on climate-sensitive sectors like agriculture. Climate action initiatives must consider Africa’s unique vulnerabilities and capabilities to ensure equitable outcomes across the continent.
Promoting Climate Justice
Climate justice lies at the heart of the Global Stocktake’s significance for Africa. Historically, Africa has contributed the least to global greenhouse gas emissions, yet it bears the brunt of climate change impacts. The Stocktake offers an opportunity for African nations to advocate for fair and just climate policies, demanding support in adaptation, mitigation, capacity-building, and financial assistance to address the disproportionate impacts they face.
Enhancing African Participation
To make the Global Stocktake count for Africa, it is crucial to enhance African participation in the process. African countries must actively engage in COP28, ensuring their voices are heard, and their unique concerns are prioritized. Collaborative efforts between Governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector can amplify Africa’s climate action initiatives and emphasize the continent’s role in global sustainability.
As the world prepares for COP28 and the first-ever Global Stocktake, its significance cannot be overstated. This process holds immense potential for shaping climate action and climate justice not only in Africa but across the globe. Africa, with its unique vulnerabilities and capabilities, must seize this opportunity to advocate for equitable outcomes and drive sustainable development that addresses the urgent challenges posed by climate change. The Global Stocktake is a milestone in our collective efforts to safeguard the planet and secure a prosperous future for all.