The study identifies barriers to the design and implementation of low emission development strategies (LEDS) and nationally appropriate mitigation actions (NAMAs) encountered in developing countries, based on the experience of LECB Programme countries. The main barriers that must be targeted are those of raising technical skill and human capacities in key areas such as baseline development, strengthening political commitment and coordination among key ministries, engaging stakeholders, and securing financing for the development and implementation of LEDS and NAMAs. This study shows that, while all participating countries face significant barriers on their journey to low-emission development, a number of practical solutions have been adopted to overcome them that can be applied in other developing countries. The study will be of interest to climate-change mitigation practitioners, financing organizations and international institutions working on capacity building and the design and implementation of mitigation actions in developing countries.