Key Outcomes on Loss and Damage from the Last Five COPs
Over the last five Conferences of the Parties (COP25–COP29), the issue of loss and damage has gradually moved from political marginalization to partial institutional recognition, though major gaps remain.
COP25 (Madrid, 2019): Loss and damage remained contentious. While the Warsaw International Mechanism (WIM) was reviewed, no concrete financing mechanism was established. Discussions largely focused on technical assistance rather than compensation or finance, reflecting strong resistance from developed countries.
COP26 (Glasgow, 2021): COP26 marked an important political moment with the creation of the Glasgow Dialogue, intended to discuss arrangements for loss and damage finance. However, proposals for a dedicated funding facility were rejected, causing frustration among vulnerable countries.
COP27 (Sharm El-Sheikh, 2022): This COP represented a historic breakthrough with the agreement to establish a Loss and Damage Fund, recognizing the need for financial support for vulnerable countries experiencing irreversible climate impacts. However, operational details were deferred, and funding sources remained unclear.
COP28 (Dubai, 2023): Progress continued with the operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund, including governance arrangements and initial pledges. While symbolically important, pledged amounts were widely criticized as insufficient compared to estimated needs (hundreds of billions annually).
COP29 (Baku, 2024): COP29 focused on discussions around scaling up finance, links between loss and damage and the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG), and addressing non-economic losses. Despite increased recognition, binding commitments and predictable funding mechanisms were still lacking.