Colombia’s Environment Minister Susana Muhamad has resigned but seeks to continue her role leading COP16 talks on biodiversity due to unresolved negotiations. Her departure, amidst controversy over the appointment of Armando Benedetti, raises concerns over potential impacts on discussions vital for nature finance and restoration measures scheduled in Rome. The upcoming summit is critical for establishing biodiversity commitments, especially in light of shifting political landscapes in the U.S.
Susana Muhamad, Colombia’s Minister of Environment and the president of COP16 for UN biodiversity negotiations, has announced her resignation from the cabinet. Despite stepping down, she has requested President Gustavo Petro to allow her to remain in her position to finalize the ongoing UN nature talks scheduled for February 25-27 in Rome. In her resignation letter dated February 8, she emphasized her commitment to the COP16 negotiations, suggesting her resignation be effective from March 3 to ensure continuity of leadership at the summit.
The context surrounding Muhamad’s resignation includes her vocal opposition to the recent appointment of Armando Benedetti as chief of staff. Benedetti has been embroiled in allegations of domestic abuse and corruption, previously dismissed from his role as ambassador to Venezuela by Petro. In a recent ministerial council session, Muhamad expressed her unwillingness to work alongside Benedetti, stating, “As a feminist and as a woman, I cannot sit at this table of our progressive project with Armando Benedetti.”
Following Muhamad’s announcement, several other ministers have resigned, prompting President Petro to ask for formal resignations from all cabinet members. The political instability could adversely affect COP16 negotiations, with critical discussions and diplomatic engagements having been neglected during this internal crisis. Oscar Soria, a biodiversity campaigner, noted that effective engagement ahead of the Rome talks is crucial for their success and expressed concern over the shifting dynamics within the Colombian government.
The upcoming COP16 negotiations are poised to tackle significant issues, particularly regarding financing for nature and the monitoring framework for restoration efforts. Pending decisions from last year’s meetings in Cali, Colombia include the future of the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF). Developing nations have called for the establishment of a new fund amid accessibility barriers at the Global Environment Facility (GEF), emphasizing the importance of biodiversity funding amidst changing international priorities.
As stakeholders gather in Rome, observers expect discussions will center on solidifying commitments to biodiversity amidst potential reductions in support from the U.S. government under President Donald Trump. Karla Maas from Climate Action Network Latin America stated, “This implies guaranteeing public resources for conservation instead of depending on the will of private actors or philanthropy,” highlighting the necessity for dedicated public funding in biodiversity efforts.
The resignation of Susana Muhamad as Colombia’s Environment Minister raises concerns about the future dynamics of COP16 negotiations. While she has requested to remain in her COP presidential role during the crucial talks in Rome, the internal political turmoil within the Colombian administration could hinder effective preparations and outcomes. As COP16 approaches, key issues including biodiversity funding need urgent attention amidst changing global commitments.
Original Source: www.climatechangenews.com
