US Withdrawal from International Climate Organizations
Introduction
US President Donald Trump has announced a significant policy shift by issuing a presidential memorandum to withdraw from 66 international organizations, including crucial climate bodies such as the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) and the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Significance of the UN FCCC
- The UN FCCC is a pivotal treaty under which the annual Conference of Parties (COP) climate talks occur and the Paris Agreement is formed.
- Virtually all UN member countries participate in the UN FCCC, making the US the first nation to exit.
Impact of Withdrawal
The decision to withdraw from these organizations reflects Trump's earlier executive order to review international bodies contrary to US interests. This withdrawal holds several implications:
- Climate Governance: The US exit from the UN FCCC takes it out of core international climate governance and negotiation processes.
- Emission Statistics: The US ranks at the top for current annual emissions and historical responsibility. In 2024, US CO2 emissions were approximately 4.9 billion tonnes, about 12.7% of global emissions.
- Financial Mechanisms: Exiting the UN FCCC may lower US influence over climate finance arrangements, affecting predictability for developing countries.
Consequences for the Paris Agreement
- Withdrawing from the FCCC automatically implies withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, weakening global climate commitments.
- The US will lose its bargaining power and legal standing in international climate negotiations.
Economic and Political Repercussions
This move may elevate the "cost of doing climate business" for US companies, as they face increased policy volatility and risk premiums. It may also complicate climate finance and cooperation, as partner countries might become hesitant in broader negotiations due to doubts about US commitment durability.
Impact on Scientific Engagement
The IPCC plays a crucial role in assessing global climate research. Although US scientists can still contribute, the withdrawal might weaken US influence in global scientific discourse and climate policy formulation.
Potential Global Effects
- US exit could alter climate diplomacy dynamics, leading other major emitters to reconsider their commitments.
- Developing countries may harden their stances, as they already perceive developed nations as not fulfilling promises.
- The withdrawal coincides with a growing discourse on climate finance needs, with adaptation finance significantly below required levels.
Conclusion
The departure of the US from key climate bodies could result in slower global mitigation efforts and challenges in securing predictable support for adaptation. The shift risks fragmenting climate action into smaller, unevenly applied measures, complicating international cooperation.
