Loss and damage from climate change is a reality for many poor and vulnerable countries, and will worsen as global temperatures rise. It is essential that it be considered systematically within the global stocktake, which is to take stock of the implementation of the UNFCCC’s Paris Agreement. This briefing sets out the reasons for ensuring loss and damage is specifically and adequately addressed and how this can be done. Giving due attention to loss and damage is a fundamental test of countries’ commitment to achieving the aims and purpose of the Paris Agreement and will be a crucial outcome for the upcoming Conference of the Parties (COP24, December 2018).