Oxfam has published a new report: “Not Everyone Is in the Same Boat: Climate Change and Inequality in the Middle East and North Africa”
The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is one of the most climate-vulnerable regions in the world. But while the impacts of climate change are widespread, they’re not felt equally. The richest individuals and fossil fuel economies are driving emissions at staggering rates, while the poorest communities are left to face the worst consequences with the fewest resources to adapt.
Oxfam’s new report lays bare the scale of inequality across MENA. It shows how climate breakdown is deepening poverty, straining public services, and hitting women, refugees, and low-income workers hardest. Meanwhile, decades of austerity have left governments unable to invest in the kind of climate action that builds resilience and protects lives.
The report also highlights how the ultra-rich in MENA are not just high emitters. They also hold disproportionate power over climate and economic policy. Their wealth and influence allow them to shield themselves from the worst impacts while continuing to profit from polluting industries. In contrast, those with the least are left exposed, with little say in decisions that affect their futures.
Climate finance is another major concern. Despite growing needs, funding is often inaccessible, poorly tracked, and rarely prioritises gender equality or grassroots resilience. Without urgent reform, climate finance risks reinforcing the very inequalities it should be addressing.
Oxfam is calling for bold action: tax the wealthiest, end austerity, and invest in public services and climate solutions that put people first. The report also urges international donors and institutions to take responsibility, not just by increasing climate finance, but by ensuring it reaches those most affected and supports locally led solutions.
This is not just a regional issue. The climate crisis in MENA reflects a global pattern where those who contribute the least suffer the most. If wealthy governments and institutions continue to look the other way, they risk enabling a system that rewards pollution and punishes poverty.
Climate justice in MENA is not only about reducing emissions. It is about fairness, accountability, and making sure no one is left behind.
Read the report here