Justice serves as a foundational principle in this study, which critically examines the equitable distribution of climate finance to developing nations, ensuring they possess the necessary resources to address the impacts of climate change while fostering sustainable development within the context of the commons. Developing countries with high vulnerability, in particular, are disproportionately affected by climate change and face significant challenges in adapting to its effects. International climate finance is crucial for these countries to align their growth trajectories with the global goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C and to enhance their resilience to climate risks. This research examines how international climate finance can support climate-resilient development, focusing on its impact on key social indicators such as poverty alleviation, health outcomes, clean water and fuels, gender equality, and energy justice.
Using data from Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) in 48 recipient countries, the study analyzes how climate finance intersects with the framework of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), evaluating its role in improving livelihoods while promoting environmental justice within developing nations. It also assesses the variations in the effectiveness of climate finance pre- and post-Paris Agreement, providing insights into how this global framework has shaped the flow and impact of financial resources. By emphasizing environmental justice, the study highlights the need for fair and equitable access to climate finance, ensuring that vulnerable populations in developing countries can meet their development and climate objectives without being left behind. Ultimately, the research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how climate finance can drive a just, climate-resilient future for the world’s most vulnerable regions.
