Following former U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement to withdraw from the Loss and Damage fund—an initiative aimed at compensating poorer nations for the devastating impacts of global heating—climate activists have voiced strong disappointment over the decision.
Mohamed Adow, Executive Director of Power Shift Africa, described the U.S.’s withdrawal from the Fund’s Board as deeply regrettable, highlighting its potential to derail global efforts to combat the climate crisis. At a time when collective action is paramount, this decision risks undermining progress and eroding the trust necessary for effective cooperation.
“The U.S. stepping away from this commitment during such a critical juncture sends the wrong message to the global community and to those in urgent need of support. We strongly urge the United States to reconsider its stance for the sake of the planet and future generations,” Adow stated.
He further emphasized that climate change transcends borders, demanding a united and unwavering response. Now more than ever, nations must come together to honor their commitments and ensure no country is left behind in the pursuit of climate justice.
Climate activist Harjeet Singh also criticized the U.S.’s withdrawal, stressing that it does not absolve the nation of its historical responsibility as the world’s largest producer of fossil fuels. Singh called for accountability, asserting that the U.S. should play a leading role in addressing the damage it has caused.
The Loss and Damage fund, a landmark achievement agreed upon at the COP28 UN Climate Summit in late 2023, represents years of advocacy by developing nations disproportionately affected by climate change. Despite contributing the least to greenhouse gas emissions, these countries endure the brunt of the crisis.
The fund is designed to address irreversible losses, including human lives, ecosystem degradation, and property destruction. According to a 2022 UN report, up to $300 billion per year may be required to sustain the initiative. A key focus is reducing fossil fuel emissions—a cornerstone of the Paris Agreement’s mission to combat global warming.
Symbolizing a commitment by developed, high-emission countries to assist vulnerable nations, the fund aims to provide financial support for irreversible damages from sea-level rise, desertification, droughts, and floods. By late January, 27 countries had pledged a combined total of $741 million—equivalent to just 0.2% of the annual losses developing nations face due to global heating. The U.S. had pledged a mere $17.5 million (£13.5m) to the fund, which officially became operational on January 1, 2024.