Climate Negotiations
Least Developed Countries
Since 1971, the United Nations has recognised Least Developed Countries (LDCs) as a category of states that are considered to be at a severe disadvantage in their development process for structural, historical and geographical reasons. Compared to other states, these countries face a higher risk of remaining underdeveloped and are also vulnerable to external economic shocks and natural or man-made disasters. Currently, 45 countries are recognised as LDCs. Their status and development is reviewed every three years by the UN Economic and Social Council. The criteria used to assess LDCs are: GDP per capita, human assets (such as healthcare and literacy), and economic and environmental vulnerability. Countries recognised by the UN as LDCs receive special benefits in areas such as development finance, access to multilateral trade and technical assistance.
Stance on Climate Negotiations
The Least Developed Countries (LDCs) have consistently advocated for urgent and ambitious climate action during COP negotiations, emphasizing the disproportionate impacts of climate change on their nations despite their minimal contribution to global emissions. LDCs call for deep emissions cuts from high-emitting countries and stress the importance of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C to prevent catastrophic impacts. They demand scaled-up, accessible climate finance to support adaptation, mitigation, and loss and damage. Additionally, LDCs seek fair access to climate technologies and capacity building to enable resilient development, stressing that historical emitters must take responsibility for financing and support.
Further Reading
Authors
Goa Bijsterveld, Susanna Zeilstra, Martin Rangelov
