ACCESS4ALL Group

The DRC emphasized the global importance of the Congo Basin rainforest as a carbon sink while advancing oil and gas auctions. This signaled that without sufficient climate finance, economic needs could drive fossil fuel development, creating pressure on wealthier nations.

Partnerships with REDD+, the Coalition for Rainforest Nations, and alignment with countries like Brazil and Indonesia strengthened the DRC’s bargaining power by increasing legitimacy, visibility, and collective influence.

The DRC’s strategy supports Global South arguments that vulnerable countries deserve financial support and compensation for climate impacts despite low historical emissions, reinforcing the loss and damage debate.

The strategy highlights climate justice concerns but raises ethical tension. It reflects economic realities of developing nations, yet leveraging potential environmental harm can be seen as risky for long-term sustainability.