Loss and Damage Associated with Climate Change: Towards Developing a “National Mechanism” in Bangladesh

Loss and damage associated with climate change have become crucial issues in international climate negotiations due to the rising frequency and severity of extreme weather events, which particularly impact developing countries and increase their vulnerability. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports highlight the growing incidence of both extreme and slow onset events, with irreversible losses including non-economic impacts such as loss of lives, cultural heritage, and biodiversity. While developing countries seek compensatory measures from developed nations based on historical emissions, the current international climate regime focuses on adaptation and risk management strategies rather than on liability to pay compensation. Although the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) (1992) and the Kyoto Protocol (1997) addressed the issue of mitigation and adaptation, they overlooked loss and damage. Progress in recognizing the need for an international mechanism was made in the Cancun Agreements (CoP16) and subsequent decisions made under various Conferences of the Parties (CoP), leading to its inclusion in the Paris Agreement (2015). Bangladesh, despite its minimal contribution to global emissions, is highly vulnerable to climate change impacts, underscoring the need for strong international and national mechanisms. This chapter critiques existing frameworks and advocates for a new national mechanism to effectively address climate-induced loss and damage in Bangladesh.