Between 2019 and 2024, Germany transferred approximately €4.33 million to Colombia. This money, provided as development aid, funded a project for climate-friendly refrigerators. The German government cites its climate targets in this context and sees a direct benefit for Germany. (bz-berlin: 23.01.26)
Project name, partners, and trigger for the debate
Specifically, the debate concerned the project “Colombian NAMA for the domestic refrigeration sector.” It was part of a funding program for more efficient household refrigerators. Furthermore, the project was jointly financed with the Danish government.
The sum became public knowledge through the German government’s response to a parliamentary inquiry from the AfD (Alternative for Germany). The “B.Z.” newspaper reported on it, bringing the issue into sharp focus. At the same time, the German government emphasizes that the funding is part of its development cooperation efforts and aims to achieve climate goals.
Climate Goals as an Argument
In its response, the German government describes its approach with regard to developing countries such as Colombia. It supports these countries in their efforts to “implement ambitious climate protection policies.” This, it argues, enables the achievement of international climate protection goals, which the German government considers strategically sound.
A key point concerns the climate impact of old appliances. The German government writes: “Old refrigerators often contain refrigerants that contribute thousands of times more to global warming than carbon dioxide (CO₂) or are ozone-depleting.” Therefore, it highlights the global effect of such measures. Furthermore, it explicitly states a vested interest: “It is in Germany’s interest to achieve the reduction of globally impactful greenhouse gas emissions at the lowest possible cost.”
What the development aid money was intended for and what it wasn’t
According to the German government, the aid was not intended to pay for refrigerators for private buyers in Colombia. It emphasizes that the “private purchase costs of end consumers” were “not usually” covered. Instead, the funds were aimed at developing long-term structures.
The German government cites practical examples. These include advising and training manufacturers and technicians on the development of “efficient, fluorocarbon-free appliances” as part of the development aid program. It also mentions “support for the proper take-back and disposal of old appliances, including the development of recycling infrastructure.” The goal is not only to influence individual purchases but also the market and disposal practices.
Implementation by GIZ and the Political Framework in Berlin
According to the German Federal Government, the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ) was responsible for implementation. This meant that operational implementation was handled by a federally owned organization with experience in development projects. At the same time, the Federal Government integrates the project into its long-term climate and development policy.
Politically, the project period spans several government phases. The CDU led the Federal Government from 2005 to 2021, followed by the SPD, which took office until early 2025. Nevertheless, the core argument remains the same, as the Federal Government primarily presents the project as a contribution to measurable emissions reductions. It also emphasizes that systemic effects are more important than direct subsidies to consumers.