Paris Agreement

Definition

The Paris Agreement is a landmark international treaty adopted in 2015 to combat climate change and its impacts by limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. This agreement connects to the African Diaspora as it addresses global environmental challenges that disproportionately affect vulnerable communities, including those in the diaspora, who may face the consequences of climate change through migration and displacement.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Paris Agreement was adopted on December 12, 2015, during the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21) in Paris, France.
2. As of now, nearly every country in the world has signed the agreement, demonstrating a global commitment to address climate change collectively.
3. The agreement includes provisions for financial assistance to developing countries affected by climate change, which is particularly relevant for many nations within the African Diaspora.
4. Parties to the Paris Agreement are required to submit nationally determined contributions (NDCs) every five years, outlining their climate action plans and targets.
5. The agreement emphasizes the importance of adaptation measures to help communities cope with climate impacts, which is crucial for marginalized groups, including those from the African Diaspora.

Review Questions

• How does the Paris Agreement aim to address the impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities, including those within the African Diaspora?
  • The Paris Agreement aims to combat climate change through mitigation strategies that not only focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also emphasize adaptation measures for vulnerable communities. This is especially important for those in the African Diaspora who may face heightened risks from climate impacts such as extreme weather and rising sea levels. By providing financial assistance and encouraging countries to implement effective adaptation strategies, the agreement seeks to protect these communities and improve their resilience against environmental changes.
• Evaluate how the commitments outlined in the Paris Agreement can influence migration patterns among populations affected by climate change.
  • The commitments outlined in the Paris Agreement can significantly influence migration patterns by addressing the root causes of climate-related displacement. As countries implement their nationally determined contributions (NDCs) and focus on reducing emissions and enhancing resilience, there may be fewer climate-induced migrations. However, if countries fail to meet their commitments, it could exacerbate conditions that force individuals from vulnerable communities—including those in the African Diaspora—to migrate in search of safer living environments. The agreement's focus on adaptation is key to mitigating forced migration driven by climate factors.
• Assess the potential long-term implications of the Paris Agreement on global political dynamics concerning race and ethnicity, particularly for communities within the African Diaspora.
  • The long-term implications of the Paris Agreement on global political dynamics could reshape discussions around race and ethnicity as environmental justice becomes a more prominent issue. Communities within the African Diaspora may increasingly advocate for equitable representation and resources related to climate action. The agreement's framework encourages developed nations to support developing countries financially and technically, which could lead to shifts in power dynamics and priorities. Moreover, if adequately addressed, these changes can empower marginalized communities, highlighting their unique experiences with climate impacts and fostering greater inclusion in global policy discussions.

Related terms

Climate Change: Long-term alterations in temperature and typical weather patterns in a place, primarily driven by human activities such as burning fossil fuels.

Greenhouse Gases: Gases in Earth's atmosphere that trap heat, including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, which contribute to global warming.

COP (Conference of the Parties): An annual conference where countries meet to discuss and negotiate measures to combat climate change and review the implementation of the Paris Agreement.