Norway Puts UN Project Funding on Hold Raising Fears for Plastics Treaty Talks
Move by largest donor to environment programme poses further uncertainty for already troubled negotiations
TL;DR
- Norway, the largest donor to the UN Environment Programme (Unep), has halted its funding before the revised budget on May 12.
- This pause has triggered concern among member states and NGOs, particularly regarding the plastic treaty negotiations.
- Norway has been Unep's largest donor, contributing approximately $12m annually.
- The decision could impact future functioning of the global environment agency, which is already facing financial pressures.
- Environmental groups fear that Norway's hesitation could lead other countries to reduce their commitment to an ambitious plastics treaty.
- Norway's move comes as its government faces criticism for approving plans to reopen North Sea gasfields, despite its stated support for climate diplomacy.
- The Norwegian government cites an "unpredictable economic situation" as a reason for careful budget consideration.