Top Stories from COP 29
How access to finance, technology & capacity building can accelerate implementation of national climate plans.
Climate education and information support climate transparency
Watch the COP29 opening ceremony in Baku, Azerbaijan, where Azerbaijan's government unveils a bold vision for advancing global climate action. #COP29
At COP29's World Leader Climate Action Summit, UN Secretary-General Guterres urged leaders to support developing nations by focusing on emissions cuts, adaptation funding, and transparent climate finance solutions.
What is COP 29?
The 29th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) is set to take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11–22, 2024. This conference presents a critical chance to advance efforts against the climate crisis as global temperatures reach unprecedented levels, and extreme weather impacts communities worldwide. Leaders from governments, businesses, and civil society will gather to develop and promote actionable solutions to our most pressing issue. Finance is expected to be a central theme at COP29, as achieving ambitious climate goals will require trillions of dollars to significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions and safeguard lives and livelihoods from escalating climate impacts. Countries will also use this platform to present their updated national climate action plans under the Paris Agreement, due in early 2025. These plans, if robustly crafted, could limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels and support the Sustainable Development Goals. COP meetings are held annually, with the presidency rotating across UN regions; Azerbaijan will lead COP29 this year, hosted at the iconic Baku Stadium.
Thematic Areas of COP 29
Finance, Investment, and Trade
Food, Water, and Agriculture
Energy, Peace, Relief, and Recovery
Urbanization, Transport, and Tourism
Science, Technology, Innovation, and Digitalization
Indigenous Peoples, Gender Equality, Nature and Biodiversity, Oceans and Coastal Zones
Human Development, Children and Youth, Health, and Education
Youth 4 COP Empowering Youth Voices in COP29
The Climate Reality Project India & South Asia, in partnership with organizations such as the Indian Youth Climate Network (IYCN), Climate Action Network South Asia (CANSA), Indigenous People's Climate Justice Forum, APSWDP, C4Y, Gurujal, Orlina Ventures, and ExploreiT, is fostering a new generation of climate leaders through the “Youth 4 COP” initiative. This program aims to empower youth with the knowledge and skills to engage in policy-making and climate negotiations, supporting their growth as advocates for a sustainable future. Through Youth 4 COP, participants gain a thorough understanding of COP processes and are trained to effectively communicate their ideas, concerns, and proposed solutions on global platforms. Youth will learn to navigate COP complexities and develop leadership capabilities essential for influencing future climate policy. This initiative offers workshops, knowledge-sharing sessions, and networking opportunities designed to inspire young leaders to drive change. In 2024, Youth 4 COP mobilized over 1,000 young voices from the Global South, with some delegates attending COP29 in person while others amplified discussions and decisions via social media. Azerbaijan, as the COP29 Presidency, is dedicated to delivering a transparent, fair, and inclusive process. Their strategy is built on enhancing ambition and enabling action for all parties involved.
