The Incomplete Promise for Bangladesh’s Survival

Bangladesh, a global emblem of resilience in the face of climate change, remains heavily reliant on climate finance commitments from developed nations to combat the escalating impacts of environmental degradation. Yet, as 2025 unfolds, the chasm between promises and reality in climate financing continues to widen, leaving vulnerable nations like Bangladesh in a precarious position. Despite commendable local efforts, the suspension of USAID projects under the Trump administration has cast a shadow over the country’s climate adaptation and mitigation efforts, underscoring the urgent need for global solidarity and actionable solutions.

The Bangladesh Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan (BCCSAP) estimates that the country requires $8.5 billion annually by 2030 to implement adaptation and mitigation projects. However, current funding levels cover only 20-25% of this target, leaving a staggering financing gap. This disparity highlights the stark contrast between the rhetoric of global climate commitments and the reality of financial support for nations on the frontlines of the climate crisis.

In early 2025, the Trump administration’s decision to halt USAID projects dealt a severe blow to Bangladesh’s climate resilience efforts. Over the years, USAID has been a critical partner, investing approximately $200 million in climate adaptation, disaster management, and community development. These funds supported initiatives such as coastal embankment projects, agricultural innovation, and health and education programs for vulnerable populations. The suspension of USAID projects has left many of these initiatives in limbo. For instance, coastal communities relying on USAID-funded adaptation projects now face increased vulnerability to cyclones and rising sea levels. Similarly, programs aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and empowering women have been disrupted, threatening the livelihoods of thousands. Experts warn that this withdrawal will exacerbate Bangladesh’s climate financing gap, undermining its ability to achieve sustainable development goals.

Amid these challenges, Bangladesh’s youth are emerging as a beacon of hope, driving innovative and sustainable solutions to address climate change. Young entrepreneurs and activists are leveraging technology and local knowledge to create impactful projects. For example, initiatives like solar-powered irrigation systems, waste-to-energy projects, and mobile apps for disaster preparedness are gaining traction. Organizations such as YouthNet for Climate Justice are mobilizing young people to advocate for stronger climate policies and equitable climate finance. These efforts not only address immediate climate challenges but also create green jobs and empower communities.

The ongoing climate finance crisis offers critical lessons for the global community. The failure to meet the $100 billion annual climate finance target underscores the need for binding agreements and accountability mechanisms. Developed nations must honor their commitments to ensure equitable support for vulnerable countries. Currently, only 25% of climate finance to Bangladesh comes as grants, while the remaining 75% is in the form of loans or loan-like instruments. This places an additional debt burden on developing nations, undermining their long-term economic stability. Increasing the proportion of grants is essential to ensure sustainable development. Accessing global climate funds, such as the Green Climate Fund (GCF), remains a complex and time-consuming process. Streamlining application procedures and ensuring transparency are crucial to enabling developing countries to effectively utilize these resources.

Bangladesh’s establishment of the Bangladesh Climate Change Trust Fund (BCCTF) demonstrates the importance of local initiatives. By 2024, the BCCTF had allocated $600 million to adaptation projects, showcasing the potential of domestic resource mobilization. However, local efforts must be complemented by robust global support to achieve meaningful impact. Despite the challenges, Bangladesh continues to lead by example in climate adaptation and resilience. The country has invested heavily in early warning systems, cyclone shelters, and community-based adaptation programs, significantly reducing casualties during natural disasters. Innovations such as floating gardens, saline-tolerant crops, and nature-based solutions highlight the ingenuity of its people.

However, the scale of the climate crisis demands more than local efforts. Rising sea levels, increasing salinity, and extreme weather events are displacing thousands annually, with projections indicating that one in seven Bangladeshis could be displaced by 2050. Without adequate climate finance, the country’s progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) will be severely hindered.

The climate finance crisis is not just a challenge for Bangladesh, it is a test of global justice and humanity. Developed nations must move beyond rhetoric and deliver on their promises. This includes fulfilling the $100 billion annual climate finance target and increasing contributions to match the scale of the crisis. Ensuring that at least 50% of climate finance is provided as grants, not loans, is essential. Simplifying access to global climate funds and prioritizing the needs of the most vulnerable nations are also critical steps.

The story of Bangladesh is a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of our world. The climate crisis knows no borders, and its impacts are felt most acutely by those who have contributed the least to its causes. Addressing this crisis requires collective action, shared responsibility, and unwavering commitment to a sustainable future.
 

Masuma Moriom is founder,
Shwapno Youth Development Organization and Project
Coordinator, JAAGO Foundation
Trust, Bangladesh.