Climate and Health Financing on the Agenda Ahead of Turkey-Hosted COP31

As the 31st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP31), to be hosted by Turkey in November, approaches, the establishment of dynamic and resilient health systems and climate-health financing rank among critical priorities.

Health Agenda at COP31

While preparations continue for the 31st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP31), which Turkey will host in November, dynamic and resilient health systems are positioned among the most important topics on the global climate agenda.

Pioneering Role and Emphasis on Shortcomings

Prof. Dr. Emine Didem Evci Kiraz, a faculty member at Adnan Menderes University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health, and a member of the Ministry of Health Climate Change and Health Science Board, evaluated the fact that health has not been among the main items until now as a significant deficiency. Kiraz stated that Turkey has assumed a pioneering role in the process by designating this issue as the 10th agenda item.

Risks Faced by Hospitals

Based on data from the Lancet Countdown report, it is reported that one out of every 12 hospitals globally faces the risk of closure due to extreme weather events. Experts convey that in the face of this situation, there is an urgent need for modern health infrastructures that focus on households and individuals and are unaffected by the climate crisis.

Financing and Adaptation Policies

Prior to the summit, it is strongly emphasized that a climate and health support fund must be established urgently, adaptation financing must carry priority, and climate adaptation policies specifically targeting the aging population must be developed.