2022 Arab Regional Parliamentary Forum on the 2030 Agenda

The session set the scene for the Forum by providing participants with an update on the status of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the region with focus on climate and climate-related goals and targets, an overview of the outcomes of COP27 and their implications for the region, and a framing of the role that Arab parliaments can play in shaping climate action and delivering on the SDGs.

The session took stock of the impacts of climate change, notably on water and other food production resources (land and biodiversity) in the Arab region, and their broader socio-economic repercussions. It analyzed the needed policy responses to adapt to climate impacts while protecting vulnerable and marginalized groups, and the role of Parliaments in advancing them, benefitting from experiences from the region and beyond.

The session considered climate change mitigation commitments and related socio-economic implications in the Arab region. It analyzed the needed policy responses, notably in the energy sector, to achieve emission reduction targets, and the role of Parliaments in advancing them, while making sure they are consistent with the SDG targets.

Climate-related hazards in the Arab region are increasing in both frequency and intensity, adding further complexity to the array of risks hampering the achievement of the SDGs in the region. Disaster risk reduction (DRR) requires “all-of society” to work together to reduce risk. Women, who are one of the groups that are disproportionally affected by disasters, can have a central role in building community resilience. In this context, the session discussed the role of parliaments in promoting cross-sectoral, whole of government and whole of society action to reduce and prevent disaster risk while strengthening resilience, especially of those most at risk.

Implementing climate action will require adequate funding. The regional needs for climate finance are expected to increase over time. In addition to domestic public and private sources of finance, all countries including those of the region can benefit from multilateral and bilateral climate funding. This session addressed climate financing gaps and sources in the Arab region and explores the role of parliaments in scaling up resources and ensuring their good management.

Based on presentations and discussions during the Form, the open discussion session helped crystallize the key messages of the Forum and identify action areas for Parliaments and other stakeholders to strengthen climate action, including in terms of preparations for COP28.