Australia is actively pursuing a bid to co-host COP31, the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference, in collaboration with Pacific island nations in 2026. With Ethiopia secured as the host for COP32, the debate over COP31’s location remains heated. Australia is bolstered by the backing of numerous Pacific leaders and support from many in the Western Europe and Others Group (WEOG). However, Türkiye’s firm commitment to its bid has been identified by delegates as a significant hurdle to a unified decision.
Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen expressed optimism about Australia’s position, citing that 23 out of 28 WEOG countries have publicly supported their bid. He acknowledged the complexities of the consensus-based decision-making process, which does not involve formal voting but rather relies on negotiations and mutual respect. Australia is endeavoring to engage Türkiye in discussions to find a possible compromise.
Leaders from the Pacific nations highlight the urgent nature of climate change and insist that should Australia host COP31, it must reflect authentic Pacific priorities rather than serve as mere branding. Climate activist Fenton Lutunatabua from 350.org emphasized the need for urgent action, stating, “Come to our homes, see the devastation, and then tell us that we don’t need the highest level of action possible.”
In light of criticisms regarding its domestic fossil fuel exports, Australia has reiterated its commitment to a net-zero emissions target by 2050. Bowen outlined plans to ramp up renewable energy usage and improve energy efficiency as key components of Australia’s climate strategy. However, environmental advocates argue that for Australia to be viewed as a climate leader, it must make significant strides in phasing out fossil fuels both at home and in its exports.
Concerns are rising that if an agreement isn’t reached between Australia and Türkiye promptly, COP31 could default to Germany, a scenario Berlin is eager to avoid. Nonetheless, optimism remains, as many within Australia and the Pacific believe that a consensus can be achieved ahead of the pivotal decision during COP30 in Belém, Brazil, this November.
Hosting COP31 carries profound implications not only for Australia but also for the Pacific region as a whole. It represents a vital opportunity to demonstrate shared resilience and leadership in tackling climate issues while advancing investments in renewable energy and sustainable practices. As negotiations continue, there is a collective hope among Pacific leaders that this endeavor will culminate in impactful global cooperation against climate change and underscore the importance of international assistance for vulnerable nations facing its fallout.