Conceptual Framework 

This study offers a systemic review of the experience of implementing NDCs in the 18 Latin American countries taking part in the EUROCLIMA+ Programme. It identifies mechanisms to increase the scope of NDCs, broaden possibilities for peer learning and obtain support from international cooperation. The document examines different approaches to elaborating and implementing NDCs, with a special focus on the following six dimensions: 

NDC formulation process
political, legal and institutional coordination sectoral coordination
regional coordination
social coordination
financial coordination 

It also includes a bibliographical review and the identification and systematization of information gathered during workshops and interviews with participating EUROCLIMA+ National Focal Points, or others designated to represent them The results are presented in the aggregate analysis of the information: 18 country sheets for each participating country, and 5 case studies, including 2 European country cases.

The latter were included as exemplary references, demonstrating the valuable experiences acquired by countries that participated in implementing the Kyoto Protocol, and in achieving absolute greenhouse gas emission reduction targets.

Current state of NDCs in Latin American Countries
The economic inequality and the social and environmental problems that Latin American countries are facing characterize a vulnerable region, where there is also a steady rise in greenhouse gas emissions (ECLAC). This reinforces the need for urgent climate action. The Paris Agreement presents the challenge of transitioning from the design stage of policies and plans intended to face climate risks, to real and effective implementation through the participation of various relevant actors. Concrete and demonstrable results are expected, in order to meet the challenge of ensuring the average temperature of the planet does not rise by more than 2°C, by the end of the century, including the more ambitious goal of limiting the rise to no more than 1.5°C. To achieve this objective, immediate climate action on a grand scale is required, which demands improved executive capacity within governments, at national, regional and local levels. It also requires the fundamental commitment of non-state actors. The 18 Latin American countries analysed are currently at varying stages of NDC implementation and, at the same time, display heterogeneous levels of ambition through which it is possible to identify and characterize both progress and remaining challenges.