As discussions intensify at the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in Baku, Azerbaijan, Southeast Asian MPs have called for robust climate reparations.
They argue that addressing the disproportionate impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities is not just an environmental responsibility but a human rights imperative.
Speaking on behalf of the ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights (APHR), Mercy Chriesty Barends, Co-Chairperson of APHR and an Indonesian MP, emphasised the moral and financial obligations of wealthier nations.
“As representatives of nations deeply vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, we urge the commitment of countries with the greatest resources to contribute to the global common good. They must address the needs of those who have contributed least to climate change but are suffering the most from its impacts,” she stated.
Mercy Chriesty Barends, APHR Chairperson and Indonesian MP. ©APHR2024
For Southeast Asia, climate reparations have far-reaching implications. Negotiations at COP29 concerning loss and damage are seen not only as an environmental issue but also as essential to safeguarding human rights. Vulnerable populations across the region, including Indigenous communities, women, farmers, youth, and persons with disabilities, are among those most affected by climate crises.
A study published in 2023 estimates that by 2050, developed nations will owe a staggering USD 192 trillion in reparations to the Global South. The Southeast Asian region alone will require approximately USD 200 billion annually by mid-century to manage the economic and social impacts of rising temperatures, sea-level increases, and extreme weather events.
Raoul Manuel, a Philippine MP and APHR member, echoed these sentiments, urging immediate action from the Global North.
“Given their historical role in causing climate change, Global North nations must fund loss and damage efforts and uphold the human rights of those on the frontlines of the crisis,” he said. “This includes Indigenous communities, farmers, women, people with disabilities, and youth.”
Raoul Manuel, APHR Member and the Philippines MP. ©APHR2024
Charles Santiago, APHR Co-Chairperson and a former Malaysian MP, underscored the importance of international cooperation.
“We urge international solidarity in ensuring all regional and global climate agreements, including at COP29, to exert all effort to address loss and damage,” he said. Santiago highlighted the necessity of funds in helping affected communities adapt and rebuild. “These funds are crucial in ensuring their fundamental rights to life, health, and a safe environment,” he added.
Charles Santiago, APHR Co-Chairperson and former Malaysian MP. ©APHR2024
The call from APHR members comes as Southeast Asia faces increasingly severe climate impacts. In July 2024, flooding devastated Metro Manila, displacing thousands and highlighting the region’s vulnerability to extreme weather. These events underline the urgency of financial and technical assistance from developed nations to protect human rights and enhance resilience.
As COP29 continues, the spotlight on climate reparations reflects a growing recognition of the intersection between environmental justice and human rights. The outcomes of these negotiations could shape the trajectory of global climate policies and determine the level of support extended to communities on the frontlines of the climate crisis.
By framing reparations as a moral and legal obligation, Southeast Asian MPs are demanding accountability and solidarity. The challenge now lies in whether developed nations will rise to the occasion and fulfil their commitments to climate justice.
