Will COP29 deliver for the most climate-vulnerable communities?

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For many of us, the annual UN climate talks are an exciting moment – but this year?already feels different. Set to be a more “technical” summit, COP29 may have fewer delegates than previous years. But the talks are still critical to advance policy change and drum up financing for climate adaptation for those hardest hit by the climate crisis.

We expect two main outcomes from COP29:?

• First, a draft text on the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) – a new climate finance goal to replace the previous $100bn target. So far, negotiations have slowed down progress on the NCQG, but climate finance is essential to ensure communities can manage the worst effects of climate change, so we hope countries can align on the new goal.
• Second, more momentum and buy-in on climate-resilient water, sanitation and hygiene, before governments re-submit their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) in 2025. These plans set out national mitigation and adaptation targets, as well as priority actions, so they are key to driving climate action and financing within countries. Water and sanitation are increasingly being embedded in NDCs, which is a positive step.

We are disappointed, however, in the lack of space and engagement given to local expertise. The regional climate weeks, cancelled this year “until further notice”, were vital spaces for communities, civil society organisations, local experts and young people to take part in discussions with decision makers. Without them, there's a real possibility that key decisions will not account for the realities of those experiencing the most drastic impacts of climate change.

No one can adapt to a world without water. Clean water, sanitation and hygiene are essential for people to adapt and build their resilience to continued climate change. This must be at the heart of COP29 negotiations.

Julie Henri, Senior Climate Campaigner, WaterAid

Can COP29 really be a technical COP without local expertise?

As world leaders gather in Baku, Azerbaijan, to negotiate climate policies and initiatives, the missing voices of those at the forefront of the climate and water crises are a glaring reminder of the progress still needed. ?

#MyCOPMessage

Ahead of COP29, we've been sharing messages from local experts to world leaders attending the summit. Because including the experiences and expertise of local people helps ensure climate policies are practical, relevant and promote climate justice.

Check out their demands and share your own message to decision makers at #MyCOPMessage.

A guide to baffling climate acronyms?

Confused by climate jargon? You're not alone. From L&D to LLA, NDCs to NAPs, we break down some of the key terms you'll hear at the UN climate talks this month.

What are Just Water Partnerships and can they align financing for water security?

With extreme weather threatening water supplies, a new solution is needed to address the financial barriers to universal access to water. Just Water Partnerships are one proposal, but how can they be realised?

What is climate-resilient water, sanitation and hygiene and why is it important???

The climate crisis is a water crisis. But why is water, sanitation and hygiene fundamental for people’s resilience to the impacts of climate change? Here we answer four frequently asked questions about climate resilience and WASH.??

Top image: Women and girls walk along a road to collect water in Madagascar. WaterAid/ Ernest Randriarimalala

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