The Loss and Damage Fund Must Include Fragile States

As the Loss and Damage Fund's board meets this week, it must address crucial decisions such as selecting a host country and disbursing financial resources. However, the agenda overlooks the challenges faced by communities in fragile contexts in accessing the fund, a recurring issue in international climate talks.

Fragile and conflict-affected states (FCS), like Afghanistan, Mali, and Niger, face severe climate hazards and institutional weaknesses, making them particularly vulnerable. Despite their needs, these states often receive minimal climate finance due to perceived risks.

The Paris Agreement prioritizes Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) for climate finance, but those with additional challenges receive significantly less funding. Mercy Corps reports that the ten most fragile states received less than 1% of total climate adaptation financing in 2021.