Developing countries ‘missing out’ on COP31’s climate delivery push, UN climate chief warns

Résumé détaillé

Simon Stiell acknowledged that many developing countries have struggled to engage with the summit’s Action Agenda and called for better access to finance to turn climate pledges into action.

Developing countries risk missing out on opportunities to build climate resilience and transition to clean energy unless they can participate more fully in COP31’s push to turn pledges into action, according to United Nations climate chief Simon Stiell.

Speaking at the opening of the talks in Antalya, Türkiye, on 9 November, Stiell acknowledged that many developing countries have struggled to engage with the summit’s Action Agenda, which is the UN climate process’ implementation track. It brings together voluntary efforts to turn the Paris Agreement’s goals and COP decisions into real-world projects, partnerships and solutions that can be scaled up.

“Many developing countries have not been able to engage fully with the Action Agenda. That means they’re missing out,” he said. “Missing out on the chance to harness its benefits to build resilience and transition to clean energy.”

Stiell invited countries to voluntarily nominate focal points to receive updates on opportunities and progress. He also proposed helping governments strengthen collaboration with businesses, civil society and other non-government organisations.

His appeal came as the World Meteorological Organization warned that a strengthening El Niño would intensify global heat into 2027, underscoring the need to prepare for further climate extremes.

In its State of the Climate Update 2026 released on Monday as COP31 opened, the UN agency said this year was already on track to rank among the warmest on record. Global temperatures averaged 1.47°C above pre-industrial levels between January and September.

Stiell said COP31 must break global targets and national climate plans into practical steps, including expanding renewable energy, strengthening cross-border grids and reducing methane emissions.

But implementation also requires tackling countries’ “immense frustration” in accessing finance already committed and available, he said, alongside delivering the tripling of adaptation finance agreed last year.

He said…

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