BAKU – The 29th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) will open in Baku, Azerbaijan, on Monday, as global leaders converge to tackle the escalating climate crisis. The event will run until November 22.
“A key focus of COP29 will be on finance, as trillions of dollars are required for countries to drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect lives and livelihoods from the worsening impacts of climate change,” according to the UN.
As summit host, a country works the entire year to steer pre-summit negotiations and lobby other governments for ambitious action. This gives the presidency an important part in defining the summit’s priorities.
In addition to the formal negotiations, COP summits offer a platform for diverse groups to present their causes and seek support or funding.
Hundreds of side events bring together activists, scientists, industry leaders, and financial executives, creating opportunities for networking, collaboration, and knowledge sharing.
Public-facing conference stages host panel discussions on topics from ocean acidification to designing carbon offset projects. Moreover, an exhibition hall, dubbed the “Green Zone,” features discussions led by national delegations, non-profit organisations, and corporations.
