Razan Al Mubarak, UN Climate Change High-Level Champion for COP28, reflects on the impact of the first week of COP29 Azerbaijan, calling it “a powerful demonstration of collaboration, dialogue, and bold action.”
Highlights from the week include:
- Forest & Climate Leaders' Partnership (FCLP): Moderating the high-level event on forests, Ms. Al Mubarak was inspired by the ambitious commitments to protect these vital ecosystems. Forests are indispensable for mitigating climate change and safeguarding biodiversity, and she remains optimistic about the progress achievable by COP30.
- Opening of the Global Climate Action Agenda: This event showcased the vital role of non-state actors in driving climate solutions. In bilateral meetings with the Umbrella Group, Environmental Integrity Group, AILAC, and the European Union, Ms. Al Mubarak was encouraged by the confidence expressed in the mandate of the High-Level Champions. This support was reaffirmed during the Agenda's opening, signaling strong alignment across stakeholders.
- Nature Finance Event: Attendees deepened discussions on scaling investments in nature-based solutions—a cornerstone of climate and biodiversity efforts. Transformative finance is critical to unlocking sustainable outcomes and ensuring progress on global commitments.
- Resilience Hub: Launching its fourth year, the Resilience Hub continues to amplify regional priorities and elevate local solutions. For Ms. Al Mubarak, it was an honor to reflect on its impact and highlight the importance of inclusive governance and action.
Each of these engagements highlights a shared commitment to climate action that is possible, profitable, and popular:
“The momentum here in Baku is extraordinary, and I’m deeply grateful to witness such a collaborative spirit in tackling the climate crisis.”
As we enter the second week, Ms. Al Mubark extends an invitation to continue to champion innovative, inclusive, and transformative solutions:
“Together, we are building a future where people and nature thrive.”