The Urgent Need for Reform in Global Climate Governance

The current state of global climate governance has come under scrutiny, highlighting significant inadequacies in the existing framework aimed at addressing the climate crisis. Critics argue that despite years of international dialogue and agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, the escalating effects of climate change demonstrate that existing measures are insufficient.

The Paris Agreement, established with the goal of limiting global temperature rise to below 2°C and pursuing efforts to cap it at 1.5°C, is seen by many as a crucial milestone. However, its non-binding commitments and the reliance on countries to voluntarily set their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) have resulted in a lack of enforceability and accountability. Many countries continue to set ambitious yet vague targets, which detracts from meaningful progress. As a result, experts warn that the world is currently on track for a devastating temperature increase of 3 to 4°C, well above the set targets.

One pressing issue is the failure to meet the $100 billion annual commitment for climate mitigation and adaptation in developing nations. This financial shortfall contributes to disparities in climate vulnerabilities between the Global North and South. Nations most affected by climate change are often those that have contributed the least to global emissions, and they are now facing dire consequences from climate impacts, including extreme weather events and rising sea levels.

Manmohan Parkash, a former Senior Advisor at the Asian Development Bank, has underscored the urgent need for a restructured global climate architecture. Speaking to Khabarhub, he emphasised that the current system is fragmented and lacks the necessary rigour to tackle the complexities of climate change effectively. He suggests that incremental changes will no longer suffice and advocates for a legally binding global treaty that requires nations to meet specific emissions reduction targets with clear consequences for non-compliance.

Parkash highlighted the importance of establishing an independent global body to monitor emissions data and ensure accountability among nations. “Accountability must be a cornerstone of this reformed climate governance,” he stated, suggesting that with the right oversight, the efforts to curb emissions can be more effectively coordinated.

Moreover, addressing climate justice is pivotal in reshaping the global climate framework. Vulnerable nations must be given a central role in the decision-making processes, ensuring that their voices are vital in shaping the policies that directly affect their futures.

In addition to rethinking international agreements, there is also a growing recognition of the need for local and regional initiatives. Many cities and communities have already begun implementing ambitious climate policies, often moving faster than national governments. This grassroots approach exemplifies how effective climate action can occur at multiple governance levels, urging a model that integrates local efforts within the global framework.

Transitioning to renewable energy and implementing sustainable practices in sectors such as agriculture and transport is essential for creating a meaningful impact on reducing emissions. Parkash advocates for an open platform to share technologies and best practices, focusing on a collaborative approach involving both the public and private sectors to enhance technology transfer to developing countries.

As the climate crisis continues to escalate, experts stress that bold collective action is required to establish a new climate governance structure that prioritises equity, accountability, and innovation. With the existing commitments proving inadequate, many are calling for an urgent reassessment of how nations tackle climate change together, building towards a future that supports sustainable development and resilience against far-reaching climate impacts.