Rethinking Nepal’s Role in Global Climate Talks
Summary
Nepal faces escalating climate risks with insufficient climate finance and weak institutional capacity. Ahead of COP30, calls grow to shift from symbolic recognition to securing tangible resources and reforms that support vulnerable communities.
Key Points
- Nepal faces significant climate vulnerability with increasing droughts, floods, and melting glaciers worsening farmer livelihoods.
- Despite pledging ambitious climate goals, Nepal has received only a fraction of the funding required, mostly as loans, risking escalating debt.
- Nepal's climate diplomacy is constrained by weak institutional structures and frequent lead negotiator turnover, limiting continuity.
- Key priorities for COP30 include adaptation-focused grant finance, cross-ministerial climate units, stronger regional cooperation, and aligning global commitments with local needs.
