Speaking at the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Saudi Arabia urged developed countries to fulfill their international obligations, particularly in financing climate action and supporting capacity-building efforts in developing nations.

At the Council’s annual panel on the adverse impact of climate change on human rights, held in Geneva, Ambassador Abdulmohsen bin Khothaila, Saudi Arabia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and international organizations in Geneva, emphasized the urgent need to bridge the climate finance gap.

He warned that the ongoing shortfall in funding prevents developing countries from effectively addressing climate-related challenges and protecting human rights.

The ambassador reiterated the importance of fully implementing both the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement, describing them as essential to advancing sustainable development, reducing poverty and hunger, and enhancing the resilience of vulnerable communities.

Bin Khothaila highlighted Saudi Arabia’s commitment to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, calling it a cornerstone of international climate cooperation.

He stressed that developed nations must lead in reducing emissions while providing the financial, technical, and capacity-building support needed to help developing countries respond to climate challenges.

The ambassador also emphasized the importance of nationally determined contributions (NDCs), describing them as the foundation of a fair and equitable transition to low-carbon economies.

He argued that these pathways must reflect each country’s specific social and economic realities, rather than being shaped by uniform standards or externally imposed targets.

In his remarks, Bin Khothaila concluded that the adverse effects of climate change continue to pose serious risks to the enjoyment of basic human rights, particularly in developing countries. He called for a renewed global commitment to climate justice that upholds equity and accountability.