Montreal, Canada – Financial support for developing countries, Indigenous Peoples, and the Global South is key to unlock an ambitious deal in UN biodiversity talks at COP15 in Montreal. Wealthy countries have not delivered funding to support a host of global targets, which have struggled for full support without funding attached. 

Iréne Wabiwa, Congo Basin International Project Leader, Greenpeace Africa said: 
“Even if finance is available for governments, there can remain many hurdles for Indigenous Peoples to access direct funds. Any finance proposal here needs to set clear lines for direct funds for Indigenous Peoples. If we recognise Indigenous Peoples are the most capable and knowledgeable on biodiversity protection, then we need to directly finance their work on a global scale. “

Li Shuo, Senior Policy Advisor, Greenpeace East Asia said: 
“What’s hindering COP15’s ambition is not a lack of willingness, but trust and solidarity. This COP is about bridging the Global North and South. So there is no more ‘them’ and ‘us’, but we all need this to work. An ambitious finance target and pledges to support immediate implementation must be the key deliverable at COP15. And it needs to start becoming visible in the next few days. The Chinese Presidency is well positioned to bring countries that can help and countries in need closer.”

Anna Ogniewska, Policy Advisor, Greenpeace Central Eastern Europe/Poland said: 
“There’s considerably too little money on the table. That is one of the big reasons the conversation is difficult here. The EU says it hears the needs of the Global South and the Africa Group, and recognises that current finances are not enough. So what is the hold up? Moving things forward means much more significant commitments from the EU and European governments.”

ENDS

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