GCC calls for slow fossil fuel phase-out to support sustainable growth and energy choices

Gulf Cooperation Council ( GCC ) member states have called for a gradual and balanced approach to climate action, particularly in the phase-out of fossil fuels, emphasising the need to align environmental goals with development needs and national circumstances. The position was delivered by Ambassador Nasser Al-Hayen , Permanent Representative of Kuwait to the United Nations in Geneva, during an interactive dialogue with the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights and climate change.



Climate Action Must Respect Development and Sovereignty

Speaking on behalf of the GCC Ambassadors Council , Ambassador Al-Hayen stressed that the energy transition must:

• Preserve development gains
  
  
• Support national climate policies
  
  
• Be guided by the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities
  
  

The GCC countries emphasised that no single approach fits all, especially when it comes to nations in the Global South with distinct energy and development realities. The statement highlighted concerns with the Special Rapporteur’s report, which GCC members described as overly critical of fossil fuels, without adequately accounting for the sovereign rights of states to shape their own energy strategies.


Call for Realistic and Inclusive Climate Frameworks

Ambassador Al-Hayen reiterated the GCC’s rejection of prescriptive models and warned that imposing rigid energy pathways risks undermining the multilateral, consensus-based process that underpins global climate agreements.

He noted that the UN Human Rights Council and its affiliated mechanisms do not possess the technical authority to enforce energy models or dictate national climate policies. The GCC’s remarks reflect ongoing concerns among oil-producing nations over maintaining a balanced dialogue on climate, one that considers:

• Economic diversification timelines
  
  
• National development priorities
  
  
• The need for inclusive, cooperative frameworks rather than unilateral mandates