Here are some main topics to follow this year:
Summit of the Future, reforming global governance
Progress on the Sustainable Development Goals is stalling and the world is affected by crises and conflicts. International cooperation and multilateralism is needed urgently. The Summit of the Future taking place in September 2024 in conjunction with the UN General Assembly at the UN HQ is a generational chance to strengthen global governance, reaffirm current commitments, react to ongoing challenges and capture new opportunities that advance global development. Several critical items are poised to form the “Pact for the Future”, such as learning from the global pandemic by establishing a standing authority on global shocks; reconfiguring the international finance architecture including questions of global economic governance in the international finance institutions; establishing global governance mechanisms to maximize positive outcomes of artificial intelligence for the common good and prevent possible risk and threats to security.
Loss and Damage, filling the new fund with life
Loss and damage refer to the impacts of climate change that cannot be mitigated or adapted to. In 2024 and following the COP28 milestone of operationalizing the Loss and Damage Fund, this issue gains prominence as communities worldwide continue to face the escalating impacts of climate change. The landmark decision has left several key follow-up points open for determination by a new board that is still to be fully composed, including the timeline for its operationalization and how the World Bank will oversee specific aspects as the fund’s hosting organization. Additionally, a separate decision confirmed that the Santiago Network will be hosted by a consortium comprising the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) and the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR). This network is expected to play a vital role in enhancing countries’ capacities through technical assistance and facilitating their access to the newly operationalized Fund.
Biodiversity Summit COP16, tracking global biodiversity commitments
The Biodiversity Summit in Colombia (COP16) in October presents a key moment for addressing the interconnectedness of climate change and biodiversity loss. Significant discussions on preserving ecosystems, protecting endangered species and promoting nature-based solutions are to be expected. The summit may highlight the urgency of safeguarding biodiversity to mitigate climate change while emphasizing the role of indigenous communities in conservation efforts. The summit will be the first following the historic adoption of the Kunming Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, and decide on key variables for its implementation including its monitoring frameworks.
World Urban Forum, realizing city coalitions for change
The 12th World Urban Forum (WUF) in early November in Cairo, Egypt, convenes to address sustainable urban development, a critical aspect of climate action. With over half of the global population residing in cities, WUF discussions will focus on sustainable urban planning, building resilience against climate and disaster impacts, including by advocating for green infrastructure and equitable access to resources in urban areas. Agreements might result in initiatives emphasizing sustainable transportation, renewable energy and inclusive urban development, and strengthening city networks to build strong coalitions that support ambitious action.
UN Climate Change COP29, the future of climate finance
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Conference of the Parties (COP) in Baku, Azerbaijan, in November marks a key event for global climate policy. Although the agenda will evolve based on ongoing developments, we can anticipate heightened discussions on the future of climate finance, including agreement on a new collective goal and roles and responsibilities for industrialized and newly industrialized countries. Discussions will also focus on enhancing Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), creating carbon markets, promoting adaptation, and accelerating a fair transition to renewable energy systems.
UNCCD COP16, highlighting the urgency of drought resilience
The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) is the global vision and voice for land, aiming to unite governments, scientists, policymakers, private sector and communities around a shared vision and global action to conserve, restore and sustainably manage the world’s land for the sustainability of humanity and the planet. COP16 will take place in Ryadh, Saudi Arabia, in December, and will likely focus on Land Degradation Neutrality targets: a pledge by 131 countries to end land degradation by 2030.
Overall, 2024 is poised to be a critical year for sustainable development, with a spotlight on addressing loss and damage, preserving biodiversity, fostering sustainable urbanization, shaping global climate policies and increasing climate ambitions, and leveraging technological innovations for impactful climate solutions. These areas of focus hold the potential to drive transformative change towards a more sustainable and resilient future.
