CDKN has worked to support and magnify the voices of the least developed and most climate-vulnerable countries in the international climate talks, and through broader climate diplomacy, for the past five years. Today, as the world responds to the Trump adminstration’s withdrawal of the United States from the Paris Agreement, we encourage you to read the responses of these developing country leaders, and to consider the statements of redoubled commitment to the Paris Agreement from around the world.

Statement of the Least Developed Country Group of negotiators to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change:

Following President Trump’s announcement of his intention to withdraw the US from the Paris Agreement on climate change, the Least Developed Countries (LDC) group, representing nearly one billion people in the 48 poorest countries in the world, expressed disappointment in the decision but emphasised that global climate momentum will continue with or without the US.

Chair of the LDC group, Mr. Gebru Jember Endalew, said: “It is deeply disappointing to see the US shirking its responsibilities as a member of the global community. We are already seeing the impacts of climate change with record droughts, flooding and heat waves recently faced around the world. For LDCs the impacts are especially devastating; as the poorest countries in the world we are highly vulnerable but the least capable to respond to the threat of climate change. By refusing to commit to ambitious action on climate change President Trump is showing disregard for the lives of millions around the world.”

“In Paris the world united with a call for climate action and the wave of momentum now behind the Agreement cannot be slowed by one country deciding to sit on the sidelines. Many countries have taken up the mantle of global climate leadership through ambitious climate policies and innovation, and the US has lost a seat at this table.”

“The international community won’t wait for the US to catch up. Transformations in technology, consumption patterns and demand for clean, green innovations are charging ahead of political will around the world. Countries are learning that taking advantage of these innovations is not only smart for the climate, but smart for the economy. Joining the transition to a green economy means embracing business opportunities that are beneficial for all.”

“The US is only one country. I urge global leaders not to let President Trump’s decision to distract us from the important work we need to do to achieve the vital goals enshrined in the Paris Agreement. I also invite President Trump to reconsider his decision. Let us continue to work together to build a safe world for present and future generations.”

Image: Ethiopia, credit Andrew Heavens.