Developing countries are seeking climate finance discussions on the official COP31 agenda, with adaptation support at stake as wealthier nations face renewed pressure to fund climate measures.
Agence France-Presse reported that delegates were still discussing the agenda late Nov. 8, before COP31 opened in Antalya on Nov. 9. The opening ceremony was pushed back by an hour, with no reason given, the agency said. Whether the requested finance topics would be added remained unresolved.
A finance platform agreed at COP30 in Brazil in 2025 is among the items under discussion. It is intended to address how developed economies provide money to developing countries. African countries also want an agenda discussion on tripling adaptation finance, which can support projects such as coastal barriers or drought-tolerant crops, AFP reported.
The dispute reflects questions over responsibility for climate costs. Developed countries have provided support for adaptation and cleaner-energy shifts, but developing countries say the sums are insufficient. Wealthier nations also account for most historic greenhouse gas emissions, AFP reported.
AFP reported that an unnamed senior European Union official saw little political backing for additional funding commitments at COP31. Observers cited by the agency expect limited breakthroughs, pointing to an oil-price shock and conflicts involving the United States and Iran, and Russia and Ukraine.
The U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) schedules COP31 for Nov. 9-20 in Antalya, Türkiye. The World Leaders Climate Action Summit is scheduled for Nov. 11-12.
