23 November 2012
UNFCCC Releases Synthesis Report on LDC Work Programme
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The UNFCCC has released a synthesis report on progress made in the implementation of the least developed countries (LDC) work programme, including the updating and implementation of national adaptation programmes of action (NAPAs).

The report addresses issues raised in implementing the LDC work programme, based on LDC Parties' submissions, which highlighted procedural and systemic issues for accessing resources and limited expertise and understanding in addressing urgent adaptation needs.

UNFCCC21 November 2012: The UNFCCC has released a synthesis report on the progress made in the implementation of the least developed countries (LDC) work programme, including the updating and implementation of national adaptation programmes of action (FCCC/SBI/2012/INF.13).

The report synthesizes information on progress made in implementing the LDC work programme. The report also provides a review of the status of the: preparation and implementation of national adaptation programmes of action (NAPAs); operation of the Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF); and implementation of LDC work programme elements.

Among other things, the report indicates that: 49 LDCs received funding for NAPA preparation; 47 LDCs have completed their NAPAs; and NAPA implementation funding was granted to 44 countries, totaling US$ 317.3 million, according to the Global Environment Facility (GEF). The report outlines funding needs by sector, noting that agriculture and food security showed the highest funding needs, followed by early warning systems and ecosystem, water resources and coastal management.

The report also highlights procedural and systemic issues in the implementation of the LDC work programme, based on LDC Parties’ submissions, such as complex procedures for accessing resources and limited expertise and understanding on addressing adaptation needs. The LDCs felt that progress on NAPA implementation through projects has been slow and noted several reasons, inter alia: co-financing requirements; lack of capacity for additionality assessments; delays in accessing funding after project approval; and difficulties in cooperation and coordination relating to implementing agencies.

The report further underscores that, to favor a country-driven approach in the work programme implementation, the Least Developed Countries Expert Group (LEG) suggested, inter alia: a global programme with enabling activities based on national prioritization of the LDC work programme; and direct funding access for NAPA implementation and other work programme elements, when possible. The GEF said unpredictable LDCF funding precludes adoption of programmatic responses to adaptation needs identified in the NAPAs. [Synthesis Report on LCD work programme]

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