In the weeks following COP29, media narratives oscillated between pessimism and cautious hope.  The Guardian headlined with “Backroom deals and betrayal” contrasted with UN Secretary-General António Guterres’s more measured perspective of a “bridge to build on”. Jesuits for Climate Justice used this conference, held in Azerbaijan, as a chance to advocate for three critical climate challenges; loss and damage, debt cancellation, and just transition. Now with COP29 over, we look at what was actually achieved on these issues:

Loss and Damage 

Despite António Guterres’ positive remarks, the conference delivered mixed results. A Trustee Agreement was signed to establish the Loss and Damage Fund, with distributions planned for 2025. However, financial commitments were underwhelming: countries pledged merely €700 million against the substantial estimated needs of developing nations. Climate finance negotiations saw wealthy countries commit to raising $300 billion annually by 2035—a figure far short of the $1.3 trillion developing countries argue is necessary. While adaptation funding will be tripled and the fossil fuel transition reaffirmed, many observers remained frustrated by the lack of meaningful action.

Debt cancellation 

COP29 brought profound disappointment for developing nations, with debt relief remaining conspicuously unaddressed. The final agreement acknowledged debt levels as a climate action barrier but offered no concrete relief measures despite many world leaders, such as the President of Nigeria, making a point to emphasise the importance of debt relief. Pope Francis intervened powerfully at COP29 to remind delegates that 2025, as a Jubilee Year, is a chance for wealthy nations to forgive debts, framing this as a matter of justice and ecological responsibility. However, the conference’s emphasis on private sector financing—predominantly loan-based—risked further indebting vulnerable nations.

Just Transition 

The conference exposed a stark divide between indigenous leaders’ experiences and political rhetoric. A group of 22 Arab countries actively opposed fossil fuel reduction, fundamentally undermining just transition principles. While ministers spoke eloquently about supporting workers and communities, underlying economic models remained unchanged. Indigenous voices articulated how proposed green energy strategies perpetuate colonial dynamics, treating marginalised communities as expendable.

Conclusions

The conference underscored a crucial lesson: meaningful climate action demands more than a ‘talking shop’ but instead a holistic approach respecting indigenous sovereignty, transforming economic structures, and prioritising justice for all communities.

We hope that you have enjoyed engaging in Jesuits For Climate Justice and hope to see you in 2025 when COP30 will be held in Brazil.

Colm Fahy
JESC Ecology Advocacy Officer