Why Did Countries Agree to More Climate Funding?

Nearly 200 countries have agreed to increase the United Nations climate body’s core budget by 10% for 2026-2027, raising it to €81.5 million, in a move seen as a renewed commitment to global climate cooperation despite significant funding cuts elsewhere in the UN system. The agreement, finalized at climate talks in Bonn, also boosts China’s contribution to 20% of the budget, reflecting its economic growth, while Bloomberg Philanthropies will cover the U.S. share after the U.S. halted its own climate funding under President Trump.

This budget hike comes as the UN climate body faces recent shortfalls and cost-cutting measures due to delayed payments from major contributors and broader financial pressures on international agencies. UN climate chief Simon Stiell welcomed the increase as a clear signal that governments continue to prioritize UN-led climate action, even as the path to future climate agreements and financing remains uncertain

Source: Reuters