A high-level panel brought together policymakers and leading experts to address the urgent need for scaling up climate adaptation efforts globally, e (ns, strategic investments, and enhanced partnerships. 

The session showcased the collective commitment of the European Investment Bank (EIB), the UN Development Programme (UNDP), the European Commission’s Directorate General for Neighbourhood Policy & Enlargement Negotiations (DG NEAR), the French Development Agency (AFD) and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Climate Centre.

EIB reaffirmed its ambition to triple adaptation financing by 2025, increasing its share to 15% of total climate action. This commitment was exemplified through flagship projects amounting to €1.3 billion investment in Jordan’s water sector over the past decade, including the Aqaba-Amman desalination project, and a €200 million afforestation initiative in Moldova aimed at restoring degraded lands and enhancing climate resilience. These efforts reflect EIB’s focus on impactful solutions for regions facing severe climate challenges.

UNDP highlighted its achievements in driving resilience through technical assistance and strategic investments. A notable success story came from Iraq, where a $500 million initiative helped boost wheat production despite persistent drought and water shortages. It also underscored the need for comprehensive strategies to address the water, food security, and energy nexus in regions like North Africa, where climate stress is escalating.

The EU emphasized its adaptation strategy, launched in 2021, with a focus on urban resilience and nature-based solutions. Ongoing efforts support through the Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy in 850 cities across all Eastern Partnership countries. EU-funded initiatives are advancing adaptation in agriculture and energy efficiency, crucial for a region highly vulnerable to climate impacts.

AFD highlighted its significant progress in adaptation finance, scaling annual funding from €500 million to €3 billion, now representing 40% of its climate portfolio. Programmes like ACaMED in the Mediterranean are fostering knowledge-sharing, capacity-building, and investment preparation for adaptation.

The panel also addressed the critical adaptation financing gap, with UNEP estimating annual costs of $215–387 billion by 2030. To close this gap, panelists emphasized the importance of private sector engagement, concessional finance, and systemic approaches. They called for innovative financial mechanisms, streamlined partnerships, and a shared framework for measuring adaptation outcomes.

The session concluded with a collective call to action, urging stakeholders to accelerate investments, share best practices, and build resilience for vulnerable communities worldwide.

Watch the recording of the event  here.