UAE Partners With UN To Advance Climate, Peace, And Security Agenda

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has recently unveiled a significant partnership with the United Nations Climate Security Mechanism (CSM), marking a notable stride in the global effort to tackle the challenges posed by climate change. This collaboration, valued at US$1.2 million, spans over two years with an annual contribution of US$600,000 from the UAE. This move not only underscores the UAE's dedication to enhancing the UN's ability to navigate the complex interplay between climate change, peace, and security but also positions the UAE as the inaugural donor from the Global South to support the CSM.

Abdulla Balalaa, Assistant Minister for Energy Transition and Sustainability Affairs, emphasized the UAE's ongoing efforts to mitigate the risks of climate change through its role on the UN Security Council and its presidency of COP28. "Today, we take another important step in our commitment to proactive diplomacy and international collaboration on pressing global issues," Balalaa stated. He highlighted that this partnership aims to bolster global climate peace and security programming and includes dedicated funding for a climate advisor in Afghanistan to address severe climate security risks.

The partnership notably funds a Climate Security Advisor position within the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA). This role is crucial for evaluating climate-related security risks and formulating strategies for risk prevention and management. Additionally, the initiative provides unearmarked funding for the CSM, facilitating flexible support for worldwide efforts towards climate, peace, and security.

Ambassador Mohamed Abushahab, Deputy Permanent Representative of the UAE to the UN, pointed out Afghanistan's vulnerability to climate change, including water shortages and natural disasters. "Targeted policy interventions and scaling up of climate adaptation measures can help address food insecurity and decrease humanitarian needs driven by climate change," Abushahab remarked. He stressed that the UAE's partnership with the CSM reflects its long-term commitment to promoting climate adaptation in regions most susceptible to climate change effects.

Rosemary DiCarlo, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, expressed her enthusiasm about the UAE joining forces with the Climate Security Mechanism. "This partnership promises a positive impact on global climate, peace and security initiatives, including those for Afghanistan," DiCarlo said. She affirmed the commitment of both the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and the CSM to implementing the COP28 UAE Climate, Relief, Recovery, and Peace Declaration.

This collaboration between the UAE and the UN CSM is a testament to the UAE's unwavering commitment to advancing the climate, peace, and security agenda globally. It highlights a proactive approach towards fostering sustainable development and ensuring stability and prosperity for vulnerable regions like Afghanistan.

With inputs from WAM