Cop26 will not succeed if the world’s richest countries don’t show leadership

The world’s richest countries have broken their 2009 promise to provide $100bn a year to help developing countries cut emissions and cope with the impacts of climate breakdown.

Combined with the UK’s decision to cut overseas aid from 0.7% of GDP per year to 0.5% – which some experts fear will encourage other rich nations to do the same – this doesn’t set the stage well for the Cop26 climate talks in Glasgow later this year.

Why should developing countries give the UK the support it needs to make a success of Cop26 if that support isn’t reciprocated?

In this Guardian article, Amanda Khozi Mukwashi, the chief executive of Christian Aid, says: “In the year of Cop26, as host and significant emitter, all eyes are on the UK to lead the world in stepping up ambition on climate action. Vulnerable countries on the frontline of a climate emergency they did not cause need financial support. If the UK is to deliver a successful climate summit, then this week’s meeting must restore the much-needed aid, ensure that debts are cancelled, and commit the finance needed to help poorer nations adapt to a changing climate.”