UN Climate Change has kicked off a new initiative called the Capacity-Building for Negotiators (CB4N). This program aims to help delegates, especially those from developing countries and youth, participate in climate negotiations more effectively.
The launch took place on February 18, 2026, during an online event with nearly 400 attendees. Participants included representatives from various countries, UN agencies, and experts involved in climate dialogues.
In a video message at the event, UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell highlighted that strong climate negotiations rely on people having the right skills and confidence. “Investing in negotiation capacity is key,” he said. The program is designed to make sure all parties can join in on equal footing.
CB4N will offer training and resources to improve understanding of negotiation processes, legal frameworks, and negotiation skills. By focusing on these areas, it aims to empower delegates and help them engage confidently in discussions.
The initiative addresses a request from Parties at the sixty-second session of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI 62) for better support in capacity-building. It’s also based on lessons learned from a pilot training that took place in September 2025, which helped refine the program for future activities.
During the launch, representatives from the COP30 and COP31 presidencies agreed on the importance of this initiative. They noted that as climate negotiations grow more complex, having well-equipped negotiators is essential for effective and inclusive outcomes.
Why This Matters
The need for initiatives like CB4N is underscored by current global climate challenges. According to recent studies, climate events are becoming more severe. A report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change found that extreme weather events have almost doubled since the 1980s. This emphasizes the urgency of having skilled negotiators who can advocate for their communities and countries.
As this initiative progresses, it will be crucial to monitor how it impacts the effectiveness of climate negotiations, especially for underrepresented groups. Engaging youth and developing nations can lead to more innovative solutions and help foster a collaborative atmosphere essential for tackling climate change.
For more on climate initiatives and their impact, check the UNFCCC website.
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Capacity-Building for Negotiators (CB4N),UN Climate Change,UNFCCC
