Political maneuvers are heating up at COP30 in Belém, Brazil, as Australia and Türkiye compete for the opportunity to host COP31. Karlos Lee Moresi, a climate advisor for the Pacific Islands Forum, has pointed out that negotiations have become increasingly complex, with Australia insisting on the need for a COP event in the Pacific region. Conversely, Türkiye remains firm in its hosting ambitions without any signs of backing down.
Moresi explained that “There’s a bit of political and ego maneuvering happening behind the scenes,” indicating that Türkiye is working to sway European nations to support its bid. He highlighted that should Türkiye be awarded the hosting rights for COP31, Pacific nations would expect to gain concessions in return, although they are not actively pursuing that avenue just yet.
The COP30 conference coincides with the tenth anniversary of the Paris Agreement, during which UNFCCC Executive Secretary Simon Stiell emphasized the pressing need for immediately actionable measures to manage the rising global temperatures. Stiell noted, “The emissions curve has been bent downwards because of what was agreed in halls like this, with governments legislating and markets responding,” reflecting on the progress made since the agreement’s inception.
Pacific nations are passionately advocating for the critical goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. This year’s conference has the distinct feature of the International Court of Justice’s advisory opinion, which could act as a significant negotiating tool, asserting that failure to address climate change could violate international law and providing a legal framework for countries to demand accountability.
Youth advocates are also raising the alarm on the necessity for enhanced collaboration on climate solutions, particularly regarding the impact of climate change on the younger population. Faiesea Ah Chee, a youth delegate from Samoa, voiced concerns regarding substantial funding gaps in adaptation and mitigation strategies.
In Papua New Guinea, rescue workers face the urgent task of relocating approximately 300 residents following a catastrophic landslide, with officials and local leaders attributing the extreme weather events leading to this disaster to climate change.
The outcome of COP30 is deemed crucial, as negotiations unfold until the end of next week. The competition for hosting rights accentuates the urgent need for actionable climate initiatives, especially as Pacific voices seek recognition within the global climate policy dialogue. With high stakes involved, there is enduring hope that concerted efforts and advocacy will yield substantial outcomes that prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable communities.