2 September 2025

Statement from Co-Chairs on the fifth Advisory Board meeting 

We are pleased to welcome Advisory Board members, representatives, the Secretariat, and observers to the fifth meeting of the Santiago network Advisory Board, taking place from 2 to 4 September in Geneva, Switzerland. This meeting brings together a diverse group united in their commitment to supporting developing countries and communities particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change in taking action on responding to loss and damage.

Since our fourth meeting, the Santiago network has made significant progress in delivering on its mandate. One of the most notable developments is the substantial increase in demand for technical assistance, with seven formal requests now submitted. This reflects growing trust in the Santiago network and deeper engagement from developing countries and communities.

This momentum reflects the extensive outreach and engagement efforts. From a dedicated workshop for least developed countries and small island developing States in Africa to targeted information sessions for national liaisons to the Santiago network Secretariat and UNFCCC National Focal Points, the network has strengthened its connection with those on the frontlines of climate change—helping ensure that support is delivered where it is needed most.

With 62 Members representing diverse expertise and regional perspectives, the Santiago network is well positioned to deliver country-driven, context-specific technical assistance. Our strengthened partnerships with the WIM Executive Committee, the Fund for responding to Loss and Damage, and other actors further underscore the network’s integral role within the loss and damage architecture and our commitment to supporting complementarity and coherence.

These achievements demonstrate both the progress made and the opportunities ahead. This fifth meeting comes at a pivotal moment. The decisions we make over the coming days will be critical to enabling the network to accelerate its efforts and deliver technical assistance to countries and communities.

We look forward to productive discussions and continued collaboration to advance equitable, inclusive and impactful climate action.

— Angela Rivera and Stella Brożek-Everaert, Co-Chairs of the Santiago network Advisory Board