Fractured talks at the COP29 in Azerbaijan concluded with developed nations agreeing to help channel “at least” US $300 billion a year into developing countries by 2035 to support their efforts to deal with climate change. This agreement fell far short of the $1.3 trillion annually demanded by developing countries to transition to low-carbon economies and adapt to extreme weather. Nigeria labeled the outcome a “joke,” underscoring mounting frustration in the Global South.
Why has progress stalled? One contributing factor may be shifting public opinion. Recent research from GlobeScan reveals that while majorities in G7 nations still agree that wealthier countries should help those disproportionately affected by climate change, public backing has noticeably eroded in Italy, Japan, Canada, Germany, and the UK. Only the USA has maintained its low support levels while remaining the least supportive among G7 nations.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?
Despite majority backing, declining public support for climate aid in G7 countries stems from economic pressures like inflation, slow growth, and competing domestic priorities, making citizens more inward-focused. Politically, populist pressure and sovereignty-focused rhetoric have reframed climate finance as a burden rather than an imperative. Without clearer communication about the shared benefits of international climate action, this trend could further jeopardize progress on equitable solutions and weaken North-South collaboration on climate change.
This analysis is drawn from GlobeScan’s global Radar research program which surveyed over 30,000 people across 31 countries and territories, providing unparalleled insights into public opinion on critical societal challenges.
Survey Question: For each of the following statements, please indicate if you strongly agree, somewhat agree, somewhat disagree, or strongly disagree. – Rich countries must pay for poorer countries to deal with the effects of climate change.
Source: GlobeScan Radar Trends Report (survey of 30,216 people in the general public in July ‒ August 2024)