The least developed countries (LDCs) are at a decisive stage in their economic development. Climate change requires that they pursue sustained economic growth while balancing needed climate actions against inescapable trade-offs with sustainable development. This technical paper argues that the need to chart a path to decarbonization is most critical and urgent in LDCs. It outlines key policy priorities that should inform the design of decarbonization policy and critical elements that shape decarbonization assessments in LDCs and other developing countries.