“The Vital Role of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) at COP29”- By Ali Serim

As the world gathered at the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the stakes have never been higher. Global climate action has reached a critical juncture, and the voices of the most vulnerable and most impacted are finally at the forefront. Among these are the Small Island Developing States (SIDS), whose unique challenges and proactive approaches to climate resilience position them as crucial contributors to global climate discussions. SIDS, particularly those in the Atlantic like The Bahamas, have a significant voice at COP29, as their perspectives and experiences are essential for driving effective and equitable climate action. Adding to this momentum is the support of countries like Azerbaijan, which is helping amplify the call for urgent global climate measures.

The Unique Vulnerability of Caribbean SIDS

Small Island Developing States in the Caribbean, such as The Bahamas, Barbados, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, face unparalleled risks due to climate change. Rising sea levels, the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, and ocean acidification threaten their very existence. The Bahamas, for instance, has suffered devastating hurricanes, including Hurricane Dorian in 2019 and the recent Hurricane Beryl in 2024, causing catastrophic damage, displacing thousands, and inflicting billions of dollars in losses. Similarly, Barbados is grappling with rising sea levels and coastal erosion, which endanger its tourism industry and freshwater resources. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has also faced severe weather events, leading to landslides and flooding that disrupt livelihoods and infrastructure.

These environmental threats pose existential risks, undermining their economies, infrastructures, and overall livelihoods. Highlighting these vulnerabilities at COP29 is not just about securing aid but about emphasizing the urgent need for global action to mitigate and adapt to climate change. According to NASA, global sea levels are rising at an accelerated rate due to the melting of ice sheets and glaciers, posing a severe threat to coastal and island communities.

Pioneers in Climate Resilience

Despite their vulnerabilities, Atlantic SIDS have demonstrated remarkable leadership in climate resilience and sustainability. They have been at the forefront of adopting renewable energy, implementing sustainable tourism practices, and pioneering innovative solutions for coastal management and biodiversity conservation.

The Bahamas has launched projects to transition to renewable energy, reducing dependency on fossil fuels and increasing the resilience of its energy infrastructure. Barbados has made significant strides in solar energy adoption, becoming a regional leader in clean energy initiatives. The government remains committed to achieving 100% renewable energy by 2030, demonstrating its dedication to sustainable development. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has also implemented comprehensive disaster risk reduction programs, incorporating climate change adaptation into national planning to enhance community resilience.

These proactive measures offer valuable lessons for larger, more industrialized nations and highlight the feasibility and necessity of bold climate action.

Why COP29 Is a Milestone for SIDS

COP29 in Baku holds particular significance for SIDS for several reasons. Firstly, it represents a pivotal moment to review and strengthen the commitments made under the Paris Agreement. As the impacts of climate change become increasingly severe, the urgency to enhance national climate pledges (NDCs) and ensure their implementation cannot be overstated. For SIDS, whose very survival is at stake, COP29 provides a critical platform to push for more ambitious global targets and stronger enforcement mechanisms.

Secondly, COP29 is addressing the issue of loss and damage associated with climate impacts, a topic of paramount importance for SIDS. This includes establishing dedicated funding mechanisms to compensate countries for the irreversible losses they suffer due to climate change. The Bahamas, Barbados, and Saint Lucia now have the opportunity to advocate for robust support structures to help them recover from devastating events and build resilience against future threats.

Additionally, COP29 offers a unique forum for showcasing the innovative solutions, and climate resilience strategies that SIDS have developed. By sharing their experiences and successes, SIDS aim to inspire other nations to adopt similar measures and collaborate on global climate solutions. The international community stands to benefit from the firsthand knowledge and practical approaches that SIDS bring to the table.

Advocacy for Climate Justice

Caribbean SIDS have long been advocates for climate justice and the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC). They argue that those who have contributed the least to global greenhouse gas emissions are often the ones suffering the most from its consequences. The Bahamas has been vocal in international forums, calling for greater accountability from major polluters and pushing for climate justice. Similarly, other Caribbean islands consistently highlight the disproportionate impact of climate change on small island nations, urging for greater international cooperation and support.

These perspectives are crucial for shaping fair and effective climate policies that address historical injustices and ensure that the burdens of climate action do not disproportionately fall on the most vulnerable. By amplifying their voices, COP29 underscores the ethical dimensions of climate change and promotes more equitable solutions.

The Ethical Responsibility of Developed Countries

Developed countries bear an ethical responsibility to support SIDS in their climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts. Historically, developed nations have been the primary contributors to greenhouse gas emissions driving climate change. As such, they bear a significant share of responsibility for the adverse impacts experienced by SIDS. This ethical duty entails providing substantial financial assistance, technological support, and capacity-building initiatives to help SIDS cope with and adapt to climate impacts. Developed countries must honor their commitments to climate financing, ensuring that funds are accessible, adequate, and predictable. By doing so, they can help rectify historical injustices and foster a more equitable global climate response.

The Need for Enhanced Financial Support

One of the critical issues for Caribbean SIDS at COP29 is the need for increased financial support for adaptation and mitigation efforts. Climate financing has long been a contentious issue, with many developed countries falling short of their pledges. For The Bahamas, Barbados, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and other Caribbean SIDS, access to adequate and predictable funding is vital for building resilient infrastructure, enhancing disaster preparedness, and transitioning to sustainable energy systems. The Bahamas, for instance, has sought international support to rebuild and strengthen its infrastructure post-Hurricanes Dorian and Beryl, highlighting the pressing need for reliable climate financing. Barbados, with its ambitious renewable energy goals, requires sustained financial backing to achieve its targets. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines needs consistent funding to maintain and expand its disaster risk reduction programs.

Strengthening Global Climate Ambition

The experiences and leadership of Caribbean SIDS can inspire greater ambition in global climate targets. Their firsthand experiences with climate impacts provide compelling evidence of the need for more aggressive mitigation efforts. The Bahamas, for example, has advocated for limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, as outlined in the Paris Agreement, as a matter of survival. Barbados and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines echo these calls, underscoring the critical importance of this target for their continued existence. By highlighting the dire consequences of inaction, Atlantic SIDS are helping to galvanize global efforts to adopt more stringent emissions reduction commitments.

Support from Azerbaijan and the Baku Communique: A Strengthened Partnership with The Bahamas

The support of countries like Azerbaijan has been pivotal in amplifying the voices of SIDS at COP29, especially through the strengthened partnership it shares with The Bahamas. Under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, Azerbaijan has committed to various international environmental agreements, reinforcing its dedication to tackling climate change globally.

In 2024, Azerbaijan and The Bahamas, along with Tuvalu and Tonga, signed the Baku Communique—a landmark agreement underscoring their commitment to mutual support in combating climate change. This agreement exemplifies the great relationship between Azerbaijan and The Bahamas, bridging the Atlantic and Eurasian regions through shared goals for sustainable development and enhanced climate resilience. The Baku Communique reflects the dedication of both nations to advocate for stronger global climate action and foster cooperative solutions.

The Importance of Optimism and Hope

Optimism and hope are vital for COP29 and SIDS because they fuel the motivation and determination needed to tackle climate challenges. Despite facing daunting odds, SIDS have consistently demonstrated resilience and innovation. Their successes in renewable energy adoption, sustainable tourism, and community-based adaptation offer hopeful examples of what can be achieved through collective effort and ingenuity.

Optimism helps to foster a collaborative spirit among nations, encouraging them to share knowledge, technologies, and resources. It also helps to maintain the momentum needed for sustained action against climate change. Hope, on the other hand, provides the emotional and psychological strength necessary to confront and overcome the challenges posed by climate change. It inspires action, drives ambition, and helps to galvanize global support for vulnerable communities.

By highlighting stories of resilience and success from SIDS, COP29 inspires other nations to increase their climate commitments and support. An optimistic outlook transforms fear and fatalism into proactive and positive actions, fostering a global community united in the fight against climate change.

Conclusion

The inclusion and amplification of the voices of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) at COP29 is not just necessary but imperative for the success of global climate negotiations. Their unique vulnerabilities, pioneering efforts in climate resilience, advocacy for climate justice, and urgent need for financial support highlight the multifaceted role they play in the climate arena. Atlantic SIDS, such as The Bahamas, bring invaluable insights and practical solutions to the table, demonstrating what can be achieved through innovation, resilience, and international cooperation.

As COP29 unfolds as a battleground of critical negotiations, I am attending all related sessions in person, observing closely to ensure that the voices of SIDS are heard and their needs addressed. By committing to more ambitious climate targets, securing enhanced financial support, and fostering a spirit of optimism and hope, the global community can work towards a sustainable and resilient future for all. The experiences and leadership of SIDS serve as a beacon of what is possible, reminding us that while the challenges are great, so too is our collective capacity to overcome them.

 

About the writer:

Ali Serim COP29 Special Envoy for Vanuatu, is a globally recognized Climate Advocate whose work focuses on Small Island Developing States (SIDS). He has been instrumental in raising awareness about the unique challenges faced by these vulnerable nations due to climate change. Ali Serim has collaborated with various international organizations and governments to promote sustainable development and climate resilience. His efforts have significantly contributed to policy changes and increased financial support for SIDS. Ali Serim’s dedication and impactful advocacy have made him a leading voice in global climate action. He is currently based between Baku and Istanbul