Climate Change and Health Equity: Addressing Climate Justice in International Cooperation

Purpose: The editorial explores the intersection of climate change and health equity, emphasizing the need for international cooperation to achieve climate justice. It highlights how vulnerable populations, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS), disproportionately bear the health consequences of climate change. Originality: This work bridges gaps in the discourse by linking ethical, financial, and legal responsibilities of wealthier nations to the global climate and health agenda. It introduces the need for a dedicated international instrument under the UNFCCC to integrate health considerations into climate policies and actions. Methodology: The editorial synthesizes evidence from global reports and international frameworks, including the WHO, World Bank, IPCC, and UNFCCC, alongside emerging developments such as the upcoming International Court of Justice (ICJ) advisory opinion. Result: Key findings indicate that without robust international support, LMICs and SIDS will remain vulnerable to cascading health risks. Existing financial mechanisms such as the Green Climate Fund (GCF) are insufficient, necessitating reforms to streamline access and increase contributions from wealthy nations. Conclusions and Implication: The editorial calls for urgent global action to address climate justice through enhanced international cooperation, legal accountability, and equitable climate finance. It urges health professionals to advocate for health equity at global forums, positioning health as central to climate adaptation and mitigation strategies. These actions could foster resilient health systems and more just outcomes for vulnerable populations.