The 30th “Conference of the Parties” (COP30) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) will unfold in Belém, Brazil, from November 6-21, 2025. This gathering will draw world leaders, scientists, and activists to discuss climate action strategies. A key goal is to keep global temperature increases below 1.5°C and to assess progress on financial commitments made at COP29.
Historically, developing nations have pushed for this 1.5°C limit. At COP15 and COP21, their concerns went largely unheard. By 2024, the UN General Assembly sought guidance from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on climate responsibilities. They indicated that nations must not only act to prevent climate change but also consider the repercussions of their inaction, especially for vulnerable countries adversely affected by climate change.
It’s important to note that while the court’s opinions aren’t legally binding, they can interpret international laws, which influences treaty obligations under the UNFCCC. All participating nations aim to limit greenhouse gases to prevent dangerous climate changes, prioritizing both ecological balance and sustainable development.
A pressing issue remains: developing countries are often the most impacted by climate change, yet they contribute the least to the problem. This has led some experts to suggest that these nations may want to seek further clarity from the ICJ on related legal obligations.
Dr. Joan Russow, who founded the Global Compliance Research Project, highlights that awareness and adherence to international law are crucial for climate justice and accountability. The growing discourse around climate rights is gaining traction on social media, with users demanding action and accountability from leaders and corporations alike.
Understanding these dynamics is vital as COP30 approaches, setting the stage for crucial conversations on our shared future. For historical context, over the past few years, youth-led movements and environmental activists have gained momentum, urging urgent climate action. Statistical data reveals that climate-related disasters are rising globally, emphasizing the need for decisive action now.
For ongoing updates and insights into these discussions, the UN offers extensive resources on climate initiatives here.
