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The intersection of climate change, migration, and health crises necessitates a multifaceted response. COP28 summit in Dubai unfolded against the backdrop of a world grappling with the urgent need for coordinated action. The 2023 Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) emphasized the critical role of adaptive capacity in mitigating the risks associated with involuntary migration, setting the stage for discussions at COP28.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) actively aligned its efforts with international frameworks such as the Paris Agreement, the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. As the summit convened, a record 32.6 million new internal displacements in 2022, primarily driven by disasters, underscored the pressing need for a comprehensive approach.

In the realm of health and humanitarian efforts, the Reaching the Last Mile Forum garnered significant attention with a pledge of $777 million to accelerate progress against Neglected Tropical Diseases. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced a noteworthy contribution of $100 million, joined by commitments from influential entities such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, Belgium, and the United States.

This financial injection represents a substantial step towards addressing neglected health challenges, reflecting a global commitment to leave no one behind. Parallel to health initiatives, the “Charter on Finance for Managing Risk: Getting Ahead of Disasters” took center stage, championed by the UK Government and the IFRC’s Risk-informed Early Action Partnership (REAP). Signed by 39 countries and partner agencies, coordinated by Samoa and the UK with UAE support, the Charter outlined a vision to facilitate pre-arranged finance. It defined a set of key principles to act ahead of disasters, advance adaptation efforts, and improve delivery systems to mitigate risks and protect the most vulnerable. Pledges totaling $221 million for disaster preparedness, risk insurance, and anticipatory action further underscored the commitment to proactive measures. Contributions from the UK, Norway, France, and the European Union demonstrated a collective resolve to enhance resilience and reduce the impact of disasters on communities.

Simultaneously, the COP28 UAE Declaration on Climate, Relief, Recovery & Peace emerged as a landmark agreement, endorsed by 74 countries and 40 organizations. This declaration united affected countries, finance and resource providers, committing to accelerating climate action and resourcing for people, communities, and countries facing fragility, conflict, or severe humanitarian needs. In the face of an increasingly interconnected global landscape, this declaration serves as a testament to the recognition that addressing climate challenges is intrinsically linked to humanitarian efforts and peace-building.

Written by: Nenad Stekić