Yunus Criticizes Funding Delays at COP29

Muhammad Yunus, the interim leader of Bangladesh, has criticized the haggling at the UN COP29 climate summit, comparing it to a 'fish market' and expressing humiliation over the need for nations like his to plead for climate funding. Yunus highlighted that developing countries, which are least responsible for climate change, face devastating impacts, including six severe floods in Bangladesh since he took office. He pointed out that nations are seeking at least $1 trillion annually to transition to clean energy and adapt to climate change, yet wealthy countries are reluctant to commit significant funding. The reluctance of rich nations to provide aid has caused frustration among leaders from vulnerable countries, who feel abandoned while their populations suffer. Yunus's comments reflect a broader sentiment among developing nations, which argue that they should not have to negotiate for reparations from those who caused the problem. The ongoing discussions have stalled, raising concerns about the effectiveness of international climate finance efforts.