Geneva, 9 November 2021 – Jagan Chapagain, IFRC Secretary General, is in Glasgow to make sure that the voices of the most vulnerable communities around the globe are heard and words are translated into action.

He is joined by National Red Cross and Red Crescent Society representatives from communities hardest hit by climate change - including Fiji, Kenya, Pakistan, South Africa and Vietnam - who have been sharing the dramatic experiences of communities on the frontline.

At COP26, Jagan Chapagain made the following statements:

“COP26 has not gone far enough to help people on the frontline of the climate crisis. The most vulnerable people, often those who have contributed the least to global warming, are paying the highest price. Humanitarian response cannot keep pace with a crisis of this magnitude, we need to make sure communities are more resilient in the face of rising risks -- including resources to anticipate and act ahead of rising risks and to cope with the devastating impacts. Vulnerable communities need action now, not words.

Global leaders are making progress, but the commitments at COP26 so far are too small and unbalanced. We need more support for adaptation and loss and damage. And we need to make sure this funding really reaches the most vulnerable communities. COP26 fails if it fails to support the resilience of the most vulnerable people already experiencing catastrophic climate impacts.

The world’s major emitters must lead, take responsibility, and help those who are most vulnerable to climate change adapt and become more resilient. This is critical to protect and save lives.”

To request an interview or for more information, please contact:

In Geneva: Marie Claudet +33 7 86 89 50 89, [email protected]

In Glasgow: Pasca Lane +44 7 982 004 859, [email protected]

In Glasgow: Melis Figanmese +41 79 202 20 33, [email protected]

In London: Joe Cross, +44 7 833 173 845, [email protected]