Every year, the UN climate conference makes headlines about global efforts to fight climate change. This year, it begins on Monday in Belem, a city in Brazil.
What is COP?
The annual conference is called COP, short for Conference of the Parties, which signed the 1992 UN climate treaty.
The treaty, known as the UN Framework on Climate Change Convention (UNFCCC), committed countries to work together to fight climate change: a global problem that affects everyone. It also introduced the idea of “common but differentiated responsibilities”, meaning rich countries that caused more pollution should do more to fix the problem.
Each year, a different country leads the conference as the rotating presidency. The host country sets the agenda, works all year to get countries to take joint action, and organises the two-week summit. The event draws attention to climate change and allows world leaders to share ideas and hold individuals accountable.
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Over time, COP has become a key place for political and financial discussions, bringing together countries, organisations, businesses, and civil groups – like a “global village” focused on solving the climate crisis.
Who are the main players?
Most countries send delegations to the summit. Nations with similar interests often form groups. Some key groups include the Alliance of Small Island States, which faces threats from rising sea levels, and the G77+China, a bloc of developing countries. The Africa Group and the BASIC Group (Brazil, South Africa, India, and China) also play important roles.
The US, which earlier said it would leave the Paris climate deal, has stepped back from its leadership position, while China, Brazil, and others have taken on larger roles.
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Is this COP30 summit important?
Yes. The 30th climate summit is seen as special because it brings things full circle. Brazil hosted the Rio Earth Summit 33 years ago, where the UNFCCC treaty was first signed. This year, Brazil wants the event to focus again on vulnerable communities, including indigenous groups, who are also joining the discussions.
What happens at COP30?
The COP area is usually very busy. Campaigners highlight their causes, and companies push for policies and partnerships.
This year, some side events happened earlier – financiers met in Sao Paulo, and local leaders met in Rio de Janeiro – to build support for the main talks in Belem from November 10–21.
During the first week, country representatives will share their goals and understand others’ positions. They will also announce projects and funding plans.
In the second week, national ministers join the talks to finalise decisions, including legal and technical details.
