Climate Crisis Intensifies: UN Reports Record Heat and Humanitarian Challenges in 2024
In a statement on X late Monday, Guterres described the situation as “climate breakdown in real time.” He urged countries to significantly reduce emissions and support a transition to renewable energy by 2025, highlighting the critical need for immediate action, Anadolu Agency reported.
Taiwan has reported its highest average annual temperature in over a century, reaching 24.97°C in 2024, according to the Central Weather Administration. This alarming figure underscores the global trend of rising temperatures, which has been linked to severe weather events and environmental crises.
Africa faced unprecedented challenges in 2024, with climate change exacerbating existing issues such as armed conflict, migrant accidents, and health crises. A devastating dam burst in northeastern Nigeria in September affected 1 million people, resulting in at least 37 deaths and displacing 400,000 individuals. The continent’s humanitarian situation is dire, with Somalia experiencing the worst drought in recent history, leaving 6.9 million people in need of assistance, as reported by the 2024 Global Hunger Index.
Additionally, migrant tragedies have surged, with 10,457 deaths recorded by Caminando Fronteras as individuals attempt perilous sea crossings to reach Spain. This highlights the urgent need for safer migration pathways and humane border management.
The ongoing mpox outbreak has also raised alarms, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which was declared a public health emergency by the World Health Organization in August. More than 1,300 suspected deaths due to mpox have been reported across Africa.
Kazeem Olalekan, a security and climate researcher, pointed out that African governments have failed to adequately address the intertwined challenges of climate change and security. He emphasized the need for investment in health and social services to improve living conditions and ensure the welfare of citizens.
Experts are calling on the international community to enhance efforts in peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and promoting climate-resilient agriculture to address the root causes of these crises.
