The United Nations is reviving its annual Climate Weeks in the Global South in 2025 after a year-long hiatus due to financial constraints and strategic considerations. The UNFCCC will now host two Climate Weeks each year, focusing on boosting discussions on critical issues like climate finance, the transition away from fossil fuels, and the development of carbon markets under the Paris Agreement’s Article 6. These events will bring together government negotiators, technical experts, civil society representatives, and business leaders to create political momentum and expedite progress leading up to the main negotiating sessions in Bonn and the COPs in November.
A Shift in Focus: 2025 Summits in Latin America and Africa
In a departure from previous years, the new Climate Weeks will no longer be regionally specific but will serve as a platform for local insights to contribute to global conversations on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the effects of climate change. The upcoming summits will kick off in Latin America in the first half of the year, with a second event scheduled in an African nation ahead of COP30 in Belém, Brazil, later in the year. These gatherings will also concentrate on supporting the submission of ambitious national climate plans, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), ahead of the annual climate summit.
Aiming for Progress: Bridging Gaps and Delivering Solutions
UNFCCC Executive Secretary Simon Stiell emphasized that this new approach will bridge the divide between technical dialogues and engaging stakeholders in practical solutions and real-world implementation. The revised focus for the Climate Weeks aims to accelerate progress and produce tangible outcomes that benefit all economies and improve people’s daily lives, all while reducing costs in the process. This shift in strategy is designed to enhance the government-led process and drive faster advancements in climate action.
Addressing Financial Challenges and Embracing Support
Last year’s cancellation of the regional Climate Weeks drew significant disappointment from civil society groups and government officials, particularly those from vulnerable nations. The UNFCCC’s decision to halt these events was a result of financial constraints stemming from inadequate funding to meet the escalating demands of climate action initiatives. However, recent improvements in the organization’s budget, including the clearance of arrears by countries like the United States, Japan, and Germany, have provided a more stable financial footing.
Billionaire philanthropist Michael Bloomberg’s commitment to filling the funding gap left by the previous administration’s withdrawal further bolsters the financial stability of the Climate Weeks. The events will largely rely on existing funding allocated for various workshops and technical discussions, which will now be consolidated into a single week and location to reduce costs and minimize environmental impact through decreased travel. Additionally, host countries and other governments may contribute funding to support the organization and execution of these vital gatherings.
As the UNFCCC renews its commitment to fostering global dialogue on climate action through the reinstatement of the Climate Weeks, stakeholders across the spectrum are hopeful that these events will serve as catalysts for meaningful progress and tangible solutions in the fight against climate change. By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, these gatherings have the potential to drive innovation, collaboration, and collective action on a global scale. The road ahead may be challenging, but with dedication, cooperation, and shared vision, a sustainable and resilient future is within reach.
