Current Affairs Reverse Engineering- CARE (25-11-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| International Relations: Japan holds Sado mines memorial despite South Korean boycott amid lingering historical tensions |
| Science and Technology: ISRO signs Implementation Agreement with Australian Space Agency for Gaganyaan mission |
| Govt notifies telecom cyber security rules; sets timelines for telcos to report security incidents |
| Environment and Ecology: 2024’s record ocean heat revved up Atlantic hurricane wind speeds: study |
| 57% chance of La Nina developing between now and December: US forecaster |
| COP29 U.N. climate summit: Developing nations slam ‘paltry’ $300 billion climate deal |
Japan holds Sado mines memorial despite South Korean boycott amid lingering historical tensions
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2 International Relations
Context: Sado mines memorial
Why in News
Japan held a memorial ceremony near the Sado Island Gold Mines despite South Korea tensions.
Overview
- The memorial ceremony held on November 24, 2024, near the Sado Island Gold Mines in Japan has become a contentious issue between Japan and South Korea, revealing the lingering tensions over historical disputes related to Korean forced labour during Japan’s wartime era.
- The absence of South Korean officials and victims’ families at the event reflects unresolved issues in the historical reconciliation process, despite recent efforts to improve bilateral relations.
Background of the Sado Island Gold Mines
- Historical Significance: The Sado Island Gold Mines, located off Japan’s north-central coast, were one of the largest gold producers globally during their operation from the 16th century until 1989. During World War II, these mines became sites of forced labour involving thousands of Korean workers mobilized to meet Japan’s labour shortages caused by the war.
- Forced Labour: Historians estimate that approximately 1,500 Koreans were mobilized to Sado under harsh conditions, part of Japan’s broader use of Korean forced labour during its colonization of the Korean Peninsula (1910–1945). Workers often faced exploitation, dangerous working conditions, and inadequate compensation, leaving a legacy of trauma and resentment.
- UNESCO World Heritage Listing: In July 2024, the Sado mines were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site after Japan acknowledged their controversial history and promised annual memorial services for all victims, including Korean forced labourers.
The Memorial Ceremony and South Korea’s Boycott
- Purpose of the Event: Japan organized the ceremony to pay tribute to workers who died at the mines, emphasizing inclusivity for all victims, including Koreans.
- South Korea’s Boycott: South Korean officials and victims’ families declined to attend, citing unresolved disputes and insufficient Japanese acknowledgment of Korean forced labourers’ suffering. South Korea’s Foreign Ministry announced the boycott on November 23, 2024, a day before the event, indicating an inability to resolve disagreements with Japan.
Key Issues of Contention
- Japanese Reluctance to Acknowledge Forced Labour: Critics accuse Japan of “whitewashing” its wartime atrocities by avoiding explicit references to forced labour and instead using euphemisms like “civilian workers.” South Korea has long demanded explicit recognition of the exploitation faced by Korean labourers, which was not addressed in the ceremony.
- Role of Akiko Ikuina: Akiko Ikuina, a Parliamentary Vice-Minister, represented Japan at the ceremony. Her association with the controversial Yasukuni Shrine, which honors Japanese war dead, including convicted war criminals, exacerbated tensions. South Korean officials highlighted her 2022 visit to the shrine as a symbol of Japan’s refusal to fully confront its militaristic past.
- Logistical and Financial Disputes: South Korean victims’ families criticized their government for agreeing to cover travel expenses to Sado without securing a commitment from Japan to address the historical grievances adequately.
- Diplomatic Impasse: South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul stated that unresolved issues, including Ikuina’s Yasukuni visit and other diplomatic disagreements, led to the decision to boycott the event.
Implications for Japan-South Korea Relations
- Setback to Reconciliation: The boycott represents a significant challenge to the recent improvement in Japan-South Korea ties, which had focused on prioritizing U.S.-led security cooperation over historical disputes. South Korea’s absence underscores the fragility of their rapprochement and the enduring sensitivity of wartime issues.
- Public Backlash: Some South Koreans criticized President Yoon Suk Yeol’s government for its perceived leniency toward Japan without securing meaningful concessions or acknowledgments.
- Japan’s Position: Japan reiterated that wartime compensation issues were resolved under the 1965 normalization treaty, an argument South Korea contests by highlighting continued historical and moral responsibilities.
Conclusion
- The events surrounding the Sado Island memorial ceremony illustrate the ongoing complexities in Japan-South Korea relations, particularly regarding historical reconciliation.
- While both nations have taken steps to mend ties, this incident reveals the difficulty of addressing deeply entrenched grievances. Moving forward, meaningful dialogue, coupled with mutual acknowledgment of historical truths, will be essential to fostering lasting reconciliation.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the Sado Island Gold Mines and the recent memorial ceremony held in November 2024:
1. The Sado Island Gold Mines were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2024 after Japan acknowledged their history of forced labour. 2. The South Korean government fully supported the memorial ceremony held in November 2024 and attended it with representatives of victims’ families. 3. Akiko Ikuina, who represented Japan at the ceremony, had previously visited the Yasukuni Shrine, which is controversial for commemorating Japanese war dead, including convicted war criminals. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? |
Q. Consider the following statements: 2022
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A 1 and 2 only B 2 only C 2 and 3 only D 3 only Ans: C |
| Answer – 1 – B
Explanation – · Statement 1 is correct. The Sado Island Gold Mines were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2024 after Japan acknowledged their controversial history, including the forced labour of Koreans. · Statement 2 is incorrect. South Korea boycotted the memorial ceremony, citing unresolved diplomatic issues and insufficient acknowledgment of the plight of Korean forced labourers. · Statement 3 is correct. Akiko Ikuina, who attended the ceremony on Japan’s behalf, had previously visited the controversial Yasukuni Shrine. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
ISRO signs Implementation Agreement with Australian Space Agency for Gaganyaan mission
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS3 Science and Technology
Context: ISRO and ASA Agreement
Why in News
ISRO and ASA signed an agreement for cooperation on crew and module recovery for India’s Gaganyaan mission, strengthening space collaboration between India and Australia.
Background
- The signing of the Implementation Agreement (IA) between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Australian Space Agency (ASA) on November 20, 2024, marks a significant milestone in strengthening India-Australia cooperation in space exploration and technology.
- The agreement focuses on supporting India’s Gaganyaan programme, specifically in the areas of crew safety and module recovery.
Key Highlights of the Agreement
- Objective of the IA:
- To enable collaboration between ISRO and ASA on the search and rescue of crew members and recovery of the crew module in case of emergencies.
- This is particularly important for contingency planning during the ascent phase of Gaganyaan missions, especially in scenarios where an abort might occur near Australian waters.
- Gaganyaan Programme Overview:
- Goal: To demonstrate India’s capability for human spaceflight in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
- Crew: Up to three astronauts in an Indian Crew Module for a mission duration of up to three days.
- Safety: A key component of the programme involves safe recovery of the crew and module post-mission.
- Role of Australia:
- Under the IA, Australian authorities will work with Indian teams to:
- Support search and rescue operations.
- Aid in the recovery of the crew module in contingency situations.
- This collaboration underscores Australia’s strategic location, which is crucial for maritime recovery near the Southern Hemisphere.
- Under the IA, Australian authorities will work with Indian teams to:
Key Highlights of the Agreement
Significance of the Agreement
- Strategic Partnership: India and Australia are enduring strategic partners. This agreement reflects the growing trust and cooperation between the two nations in the field of space exploration.
- Enhancing Mission Safety: The IA strengthens the contingency planning and safety mechanisms for Gaganyaan, which is essential for the success of any human spaceflight mission.
- It ensures international collaboration for emergency preparedness in case of mission aborts. The agreement builds on existing collaborations and opens avenues for future joint efforts in space exploration and technology sharing.
Mission Plan:
- Un-crewed Missions: ISRO plans to conduct three un-crewed missions to test systems and ensure operational readiness. The first un-crewed mission is slated for 2024-25.
- Crewed Mission: The first human spaceflight mission is scheduled for 2025-27, depending on the success of the preparatory missions.
Conclusion
- The IA between ISRO and ASA signifies an important step in India’s ambitious space journey under the Gaganyaan programme.
- With Australia providing critical support in crew and module recovery, the agreement highlights the importance of international collaboration in advancing space exploration and ensuring mission safety.
- This partnership not only strengthens bilateral ties but also contributes to global space technology and innovation.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2 With reference to the recent Implementation Agreement (IA) signed between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Australian Space Agency (ASA), consider the following statements:
1. The IA enables Australian authorities to assist ISRO in crew and crew module recovery during the Gaganyaan mission. 2. Gaganyaan is India’s Human Spaceflight Mission, which aims to send up to three crew members into Low Earth Orbit for up to three days. 3. Under the Gaganyaan programme, ISRO plans to conduct one un-crewed mission and three crewed missions by 2025-27. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? |
Q. Consider the following statements: (2016)
The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only Ans: (c)
|
| Answer 2– A
Explanation –
· Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
Govt notifies telecom cyber security rules; sets timelines for telcos to report security incidents
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS3 Science and Technology, GS2- Polity and Governance
Context: Telecom Cyber Security Rules
Why in News
The Telecom Cyber Security Rules enhance the security of India’s telecom networks by mandating robust cybersecurity policies, rapid incident reporting, data sharing with the government, and stringent accountability for telecom entities.
Overview
- The Telecom Cyber Security Rules, recently notified by the Indian government under the new Telecom Act, aim to enhance the resilience and security of India’s telecommunications infrastructure.
- These rules introduce a range of measures that require telecom entities to adopt robust policies, ensure rapid incident response, and facilitate secure data sharing with government authorities.
Key Features of the Telecom Cyber Security Rules
- Enhanced Cyber Security Measures
- Telecom entities must implement a Telecom Cyber Security Policy that addresses:
- Security safeguards to protect infrastructure.
- Risk management approaches for proactive threat mitigation.
- Training programs to build cyber-resilience.
- Testing of telecom networks including:
- Vulnerability assessments.
- Hardening of systems.
- Risk identification and mitigation strategies.
- The policy also requires:
- Establishing systems to prevent and respond to security incidents.
- Performing forensic analysis of security breaches to learn from and strengthen systems.
- Incident Reporting Protocols
- Telecom entities are obligated to:
- Report security incidents to the central government within 6 hours of detection, providing:
- Affected system details.
- Description of the incident.
- Within 24 hours, provide comprehensive information, including:
- Number of users affected.
- Geographical areas impacted.
- Extent of service/network disruption.
- Remedial actions taken or proposed.
- Report security incidents to the central government within 6 hours of detection, providing:
- Chief Telecommunication Security Officer (CTSO)
- Every telecom entity must appoint a CTSO to oversee and enforce compliance with the cyber security policies and manage incident responses.
- Government Oversight and Data Sharing
- The government, or an authorised agency, is empowered to:
- Request traffic data and other relevant information (excluding message content) from telecom entities to ensure cyber security.
- Direct telecom entities to set up infrastructure and equipment to collect, process, and store data from designated points.
- Access this data for monitoring and addressing potential threats.
- Data Protection Safeguards:
- The collected data must be stored confidentially.
- Measures must be implemented to prevent unauthorised access.
- IMEI Number Registration
- Manufacturers of equipment with International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers must:
- Register these numbers with the government before the first sale of their equipment in India.
- This measure ensures better tracking and control over mobile equipment.
- Prohibitions and Accountability
- Strict prohibitions on activities that compromise telecom cyber security, such as:
- Misuse of telecom equipment, networks, or services.
- Fraudulent activities or impersonation.
- Committing or intending to commit any security breaches.
- Any actions violating existing laws or posing security risks.
- Telecom entities must ensure compliance with the rules and remain accountable for any lapses.
Implications of the Rules
- Strengthened Cybersecurity Framework
- The mandatory adoption of cyber security policies and measures ensures that telecom networks are fortified against threats and vulnerabilities.
- Improved Incident Response
- The defined timelines for incident reporting and mandatory forensic analysis help in quickly addressing and learning from breaches.
- Government Collaboration
- By empowering the central government to request non-content traffic data and oversee security measures, the rules enhance national security and preparedness against cyber threats.
- Increased Accountability
- Appointing a CTSO ensures that telecom entities have a dedicated officer responsible for implementing and monitoring cyber security measures.
- Transparency in Equipment Manufacturing
- IMEI number registration ensures traceability and prevents unauthorised mobile devices from entering the market, reducing risks associated with counterfeit devices.
Overview
- Privacy Concerns: Although message content is excluded, the collection of traffic data may raise questions about user privacy and data misuse.
- Implementation Costs: Smaller telecom entities may face financial and technical challenges in implementing the required infrastructure and policies.
- Coordination Issues: Effective collaboration between telecom entities and government agencies will be essential for smooth implementation.
Conclusion
- The Telecom Cyber Security Rules represent a significant step towards enhancing the security and resilience of India’s telecom sector.
- By mandating comprehensive policies, rapid incident response, and data sharing with the government, the rules aim to protect critical infrastructure against emerging cyber threats.
- However, balancing national security needs with individual privacy rights will be crucial for successful implementation.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q3. With reference to the recently notified Telecom Cyber Security Rules in India, consider the following statements:
1. Telecom entities must report security incidents to the government within 24 hours of occurrence. 2. The rules allow the government to seek traffic data and message content from telecom entities for cyber security purposes. 3. Telecom entities are required to adopt a comprehensive telecom cyber security policy, including measures like network testing and risk management. 4. Equipment manufacturers must register the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers of devices manufactured in India before their first sale. Which of the statements given above are correct?
|
Q. In India, under cyber insurance for individuals, which of the following benefits are generally covered, in addition to payment for the loss of funds and other benefits? (2020)
Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2 and 4 only Ans: (b)
|
| Answer 3–D
Explanation – · Statement 1: Correct. Telecom entities must report incidents to the government within 6 hours and provide additional details within 24 hours. · Statement 2: Incorrect. The government can seek traffic data but not message content for cybersecurity purposes. · Statement 3: Correct. Entities are required to adopt a cyber security policy with measures like testing, risk management, and incident response. · Statement 4: Correct. IMEI numbers of manufactured devices must be registered with the government before sale. · Therefore, option D is the correct answer. |
2024’s record ocean heat revved up Atlantic hurricane wind speeds: study
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS3- Environment and Ecology
Context: Impact of Climate Change on Hurricanes
Why in News
Human-driven warming of ocean temperatures in 2024 intensified all Atlantic hurricanes, increasing their maximum wind speeds and destructive potential.
Overview
- A recent study published by Climate Central highlights how human-induced climate change has significantly increased the strength of hurricanes in the Atlantic during the 2024 season.
- The study confirms that warmer ocean temperatures, driven by increased greenhouse gas emissions, are directly responsible for the enhanced wind speeds of all eleven hurricanes in the Atlantic during 2024.
Impact of Climate Change on Ocean Temperatures
- The research shows that carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases have raised sea surface temperatures globally.
- In the Gulf of Mexico, for instance, temperatures were about 5°F (1.4°C) higher than they would have been in a world without climate change.
- This rise in ocean temperatures acts as fuel for stronger and more destructive hurricanes.
Increased Hurricane Intensity in 2024
The analysis reveals that the hurricanes of 2024 intensified by 9 to 28 miles per hour (14-45 km/h) due to the record-breaking warmth of ocean waters. Some notable examples of intensified storms include:
- Debby and Oscar, which escalated from tropical storms to full-fledged hurricanes.
- Milton and Beryl, which surged from Category 4 to Category 5 storms, indicating a fourfold increase in destructive potential.
- Helene, which increased from Category 3 to Category 4, causing extensive damage and over 200 fatalities, making it the second deadliest hurricane to hit the U.S. mainland in over half a century.
Enhanced Likelihood and Intensity of Storms
- One of the key findings from the study is that human-driven climate change made certain extreme conditions 100 times more likely to occur. For example, in the case of Hurricane Milton, the warmer sea surface temperatures caused by climate change increased maximum wind speeds by 24 mph at the storm’s peak before landfall.
Broader Implications for Hurricane Strength
- The study builds on previous research, demonstrating that 84% of hurricanes from 2019 to 2023 were significantly strengthened due to human-caused ocean warming.
- While this study focused on the Atlantic Basin, the methodologies used could also be applied to tropical cyclones globally.
Growing Concerns Over Future Storms
- Climatologist Friederike Otto from Imperial College London highlighted that these “climate supercharged” storms are occurring with the world at only 3°C above pre-industrial temperatures.
- As global temperatures continue to rise, it is expected that these extreme weather events will worsen. Otto suggests that the hurricane scale—which currently caps at Category 5—might need re-evaluation as climate change causes increasingly severe storms.
Conclusion
- The 2024 hurricane season serves as a clear reminder of the growing impact of climate change on weather patterns.
- With warmer ocean temperatures contributing to more powerful storms, it becomes increasingly important to focus on mitigating climate change and preparing for the more frequent and intense storms of the future.
| CARE MCQ | |
| Q4. In the context of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. Human-driven warming of ocean temperatures contributed to the intensification of hurricanes in the 2024 season. 2. All hurricanes in the 2024 season experienced an increase in wind speeds due to the record-breaking ocean temperatures. 3. The intensity of the hurricanes in 2024 did not exceed the Saffir-Simpson scale’s maximum category (Category 5). 4. The increased sea surface temperatures during the 2024 hurricane season were about 2.5°F higher than they would have been in a world without climate change. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2, and 4 only |
Q. With reference to ‘Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)’ sometimes mentioned in the news while forecasting Indian monsoon, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2017)
1. The IOD phenomenon is characterized by a difference in sea surface temperature between tropical Western Indian Ocean and tropical Eastern Pacific Ocean. 2. An IOD phenomenon can influence an El Nino’s impact on the monsoon. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Ans: (b)
|
| Answer 4- A
Explanation · Human-driven warming of ocean temperatures: The study found that carbon emissions have caused ocean temperatures to rise, contributing to stronger hurricanes. · Increased wind speeds in all hurricanes: The research confirmed that all 11 hurricanes in 2024 saw their wind speeds increase due to the warming of ocean waters. · Hurricanes exceeding Category 5: While some storms escalated to Category 5, the hurricane scale remains capped at Category 5, which is the highest level of intensity. · Sea surface temperatures: The Gulf of Mexico’s sea surface temperatures were about 2.5°F (1.4°C) higher, further contributing to the strengthening of storms. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
57% chance of La Nina developing between now and December: US forecaster
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3- Environment and Ecology
Context: La Niña and Its Impact
Why in News
La Niña, a climate phenomenon characterized by cooler ocean temperatures in the Pacific, is expected to persist through early 2025, potentially causing global droughts, increased hurricane activity, and agricultural impacts.
Overview
- La Niña is a climate phenomenon that is part of the natural cycle between El Niño, La Niña, and the neutral phase of the climate system. It is characterized by cooler-than-average ocean temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific.
- La Niña events usually occur every two to seven years and can last for 9 to 12 months, although some events can persist for up to two years.
- In 2024, there is a 57% chance of La Niña emerging and persisting through the first quarter of 2025, according to a U.S. government forecast.
La Niña’s Global Effects
La Niña has a range of significant and sometimes adverse effects on global weather patterns:
- Increased Hurricane Activity: La Niña conditions are linked to higher hurricane activity in the Caribbean and Atlantic. This is due to the altered atmospheric circulation, which favors the development of stronger tropical storms. Hurricanes like Milton and Helene (which occurred in 2024) are expected to have caused billions of dollars in damage, particularly in Florida. Milton, for example, caused an estimated $1.5 billion to $2.5 billion in damage to the state’s crops and agricultural infrastructure.
- Impacts on Agriculture: Drought: One of the most significant impacts of La Niña is worsening drought conditions in various regions. This can negatively affect agriculture by reducing water availability for crops, especially in regions heavily dependent on rainfall for farming. Food Security: The altered climate patterns can lead to reduced crop yields in vulnerable areas. Poorer countries like Somalia, Ethiopia, and Sudan may be particularly impacted, as La Niña tends to worsen drought conditions in parts of Africa, which are critical for food production. In countries like Japan, La Niña can affect crop productivity, particularly if it causes extended periods of dryness.
- Reduced Rainfall: La Niña typically brings less rainfall in regions like Southeast Asia, Australia, and parts of the United States, which could exacerbate existing droughts and affect agriculture and water resources.
- Impact on Crop Production:
- The current La Niña event, although emerging slowly and expected to be weak, may still have some adverse impacts on crop production globally. However, because it is expected to diminish by February or March 2025, its effects may not be as severe as other stronger La Niña events in the past.
Forecast for La Niña in 2024-25
- Forecast Probability: There is a 57% chance of La Niña developing by December 2024, with a high likelihood that it will persist through January to March 2025.
- Potential Effects on Agriculture: While La Niña events are typically linked to negative impacts on agriculture, this event is predicted to be weaker than usual, meaning the global agricultural impact may be less severe. However, it could still contribute to drought conditions, particularly in poor, developing nations.
- Risk for Crop Failures: Regions that rely on regular rainfall could see crop failures and a rise in food insecurity due to the lack of water resources.
Conclusion
- While La Niña events are a recurring natural phenomenon, their impacts are being increasingly observed through the lens of climate change and its ability to amplify extreme weather conditions.
- The 2024 La Niña, though expected to be weaker, still carries the potential to affect global agriculture, especially in vulnerable regions.
- The forecasted damage to crops and infrastructure, particularly in Florida, and the broader global implications for food security should be closely monitored as we move into the coming months.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q5 Which of the following statements regarding the La Niña phenomenon is/are correct?
Select the correct answer using the code below: (A) 1, 3, and 4
|
Q. La Nina is suspected to have caused recent floods in Australia. How is La Nina different from El Nino? (2011)
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Ans: (d)
|
| Answer 5- A
Explanation · Correct: La Niña is characterized by cooler-than-average ocean temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific. · Incorrect: La Niña usually results in less rainfall and worsening drought conditions, not more rain. · Correct: La Niña can have significant impacts on agriculture, especially in countries like Somalia and Ethiopia, affecting food security. · Correct: While La Niña is expected to have a weaker-than-usual impact on global crops, it is still predicted to persist until March 2025. · Therefore, option C is the correct answer. |
COP29 U.N. climate summit: Developing nations slam ‘paltry’ $300 billion climate deal
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3- Environment and Ecology
Context: Background: COP29 Climate Deal and the Discontent
Why in News
At COP29 in November 2024, nearly 200 nations reached a climate finance agreement committing developed countries to provide $300 billion annually by 2035 to help developing nations address climate change, but the pledge was widely criticized by poorer nations as insufficient.
Overview
- The climate negotiations at COP29 held in Azerbaijan on November 24, 2024, concluded with a bitterly contested agreement, especially regarding climate finance.
- The deal, negotiated after two weeks of difficult talks, saw nearly 200 countries agreeing on a climate finance pact that committed developed nations to provide at least $300 billion annually by 2035 to help developing countries tackle climate change.
- However, this amount was heavily criticized by poorer nations, who viewed it as insufficient in addressing the scale of the climate crisis they are facing.
The Disappointment Among Developing Nations
- Developing countries, particularly those most vulnerable to climate change impacts, expressed outrage at the agreed-upon financial commitment.
- India’s delegate, Chandni Raina, called the pledged sum of $300 billion a “paltry sum” and “abysmally poor”, rejecting it as an “optical illusion” that would not address the urgency of the climate challenges. Similar disappointment came from Sierra Leone, Marshall Islands, and various other Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs), which felt betrayed by what they considered inadequate financial support.
- Despite these criticisms, the agreement was a compromise reached under significant pressure. While rich nations (including the United States, Japan, and the European Union) had initially proposed a far lower figure, they increased their offer following a sleepless night of diplomatic negotiations.
- The final figure of $300 billion was seen as a concession, though still not enough to meet the expectations of developing nations, many of which had pushed for a much larger $500 billion
Specific Concerns and Criticism
- Inadequate Financial Support for Vulnerable Countries: The $300 billion figure was perceived as insufficient to help the most affected countries, such as Somalia, Ethiopia, and Sudan, cope with the severe consequences of climate change, including floods, droughts, and rising sea levels. Experts, including those commissioned by the United Nations, had estimated that developed countries should be providing at least $390 billion per year to effectively meet the needs of developing nations, excluding China. The agreement, however, fell short of this figure.
- Lack of Binding Commitment: While the deal did include a broader target of $1.3 trillion per year for climate action by 2035, a significant portion of this funding would come from private sources, which many experts argue may not be sufficient or reliable to meet the needs of the most vulnerable nations. The deal also encouraged developing countries to contribute voluntarily to climate finance, but this provision did not apply to countries like China, the world’s largest emitter, which already provides climate finance on its own terms.
- Political Realities and Resistance: The financial promises were made under the shadow of political realities in developed countries. Donald Trump, who is a skeptic of both climate change and foreign aid, is set to return to the White House in January 2025. This, combined with right-wing backlashes in other Western countries against green agendas, added to the pressure on developed nations to limit the scale of their financial commitments.
- Frustration with the Host Country (Azerbaijan): The host country for COP29, Azerbaijan, was criticized by some developing nations for not having the necessary experience or political will to adequately address the climate crisis, especially considering its status as an oil and gas exporter. This added to the frustration, as many countries felt the negotiations lacked urgency.
The Outcome of COP29
Despite these challenges and disagreements, the final deal did include key provisions:
- $300 billion/year commitment by 2035 from developed nations to help developing countries with climate adaptation and mitigation.
- An overall target of $1.3 trillion/year to combat climate impacts, with a significant portion expected to come from private sector investments.
- Voluntary contributions from developing nations to the climate finance pool, which may or may not include China.
However, the deal is viewed by many as a temporary compromise rather than a long-term solution. UN Secretary-General António Guterres and other experts expressed their disappointment with the deal, acknowledging that while it was a step forward, it did not go far enough in addressing the scale of the climate crisis. The deal was seen as a base to build upon, but no country got everything they wanted.
Conclusion
- COP29 was marked by deep divisions over climate finance, with the final agreement reflecting the political and financial limitations of developed countries.
- For developing nations, the deal fell short of addressing the urgent need for substantial financial assistance to tackle the impacts of climate change.
- The final deal, though significant in its financial pledges, is seen as a starting point that will require further negotiations and commitments to meet the evolving and urgent demands of the climate crisis.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q6 In the climate finance deal reached at COP29 in November 2024, which of the following statements are true?
Select the correct answer: A) 1, 3, and 4
|
Q. In the context of WHO Air Quality Guidelines, consider the following statements: 2022
Which of the statements, given above are correct?
Ans: B
|
| Answer 6- B
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct: Developed nations agreed to provide at least $300 billion annually by 2035 to help developing countries address climate change. · Statement 2 is incorrect: Developing countries expressed dissatisfaction with the $300 billion pledge, demanding much more, with some nations calling it a “mockery.” · Statement 3 is incorrect: The deal did not mandate newly wealthy economies like China to contribute on the same terms as developed countries. However, developing countries were encouraged to contribute on a voluntary basis. · Statement 4 is correct: The overall target for climate finance was set at $1.3 trillion annually, with most funds expected to come from private sources. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |