STATEMENT: World Bank Should Extend Climate Change Action Plan

STATEMENT: World Bank Should Extend Climate Change Action Plan

Last Updated: June 24, 2026 Originally Published: June 24, 2026

WASHINGTON, DC (June 24, 2026) - This week, the World Bank Board of Directors is expected to decide on the future of its flagship Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP). The current plan is set to expire on June 30, 2026, making this a critical decision point on whether the world's largest multilateral development bank will continue to prioritize financing for climate-related activities.

This has become a major flashpoint among the Bank's key shareholders. The current United States administration and a small group of allies are actively pushing to alter or weaken the framework, specifically its core mandate to direct 45% of World Bank financing toward investments that support climate adaptation and mitigation. This has sparked strong resistance from a large coalition of developing and borrower nations - including a bloc of nearly 100 countries - that are demanding the Bank preserve this key tool for fulfilling its mission of 'a world free of poverty on a livable planet.'

Following is a statement from Melanie Robinson, WRI Global Director for Climate, Economics and Finance:

"Developing countries are increasingly seeking investments that both reduce poverty and seize the opportunity for more resilient, greener growth. Since the Climate Change Action Plan was put in place, countries have used World Bank resources to increase access to clean and affordable energy and water, build more resilient food systems and cities, and create green job opportunities. It would be wrong for a small number of shareholders to weaken this framework and its goals, denying countries the opportunity to participate in one of the most important economic transitions of our time."

climate finance multilateral development banks