At a UN climate conference, a dual reality unfolds: an open exhibition space contrasts with secretive negotiations led by diplomats like Felix Wertli from Switzerland. As the conference nears its end, discussions focus on a new financial framework for climate action, amidst political tensions, particularly from Azerbaijani President Aliyev’s remarks. Key issues include demands for increased financial contributions from developed nations and scrutiny of China’s role. The involvement of high-level politicians in the final stages raises hopes for a successful outcome.
At a United Nations climate conference, two distinct realities unfold. The first is an open environment where states, corporations, research institutions, and NGOs showcase their initiatives in a bustling exhibition hall, engaging in panel discussions and seminars.
The second, however, is shrouded in secrecy, where diplomats engage in delicate negotiations, strategizing in smaller groups, and striking deals. This is where Felix Wertli dedicates much of his time as he leads the Swiss delegation for the second time.
Wertli’s days are long and demanding, beginning at 7 a.m. and often stretching until 10 p.m. The absence of natural light in the conference halls has left him somewhat disoriented regarding time, he admits.
As the UN climate conference approaches its conclusion, state representatives have shifted their focus from technical negotiations to addressing political disagreements. By the end of the week, a conclusive statement is anticipated, outlining a new financial framework for climate protection, which will tackle three crucial questions: Who will bear the costs? How will the goals be structured? And what will the financial target be?
However, the success of these discussions remains uncertain. “We faced a rocky start,” Wertli reflects.
Aliyev’s Remarks Cause Friction Among Negotiators
Political tension marked the first week of negotiations, notably highlighted by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev’s inaugural address. He provoked irritation by referring to his country’s oil and gas resources as a “gift from God,” and criticized Western nations for their perceived double standards and hypocrisy.
His comments specifically targeted France, accusing President Macron’s administration of violent crackdowns on protests in New Caledonia, which he used to underscore his discontent with France’s support for Armenia, Azerbaijan’s adversary regarding the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
The French government expressed outrage at Aliyev’s speech, leading to the cancellation of a planned trip by their lead negotiator to Baku. Wertli found the remarks surprising, noting that it is atypical for a host nation to utilize such a platform for political statements, although he acknowledged that the Azerbaijani delegation typically refrains from such rhetoric in negotiation settings.
New Demands Complicate Negotiations
This year’s discussions center around establishing a new financial objective. Under the existing agreement, developed nations are expected to mobilize $100 billion annually for climate action, while developing countries are not required to contribute. This goal is set to expire, necessitating a revised figure that inspires future ambition.
Interestingly, China’s classification as a developing nation, a designation that has been in place since 1992, is now contentious. As the world’s second-largest economy and the leading emitter of CO2, China’s role in climate finance has come under scrutiny, especially since it has not previously disclosed its spending on climate initiatives in developing countries.
Two primary issues have emerged as significant points of contention. First, industrialized nations, including Switzerland, are advocating for an expanded pool of donor countries, pushing for contributions from China and Gulf states. Second, developing countries are emphasizing the need for a much higher financial target, with calls from NGOs and coalitions for a tenfold increase to $1 trillion annually.
The foundational document for discussions has swelled from 9 to 25 pages as negotiations progressed, with many states arriving with new demands. Wertli expressed concern over this focus on financial targets before establishing who will contribute and on what basis: “It’s essential to clarify these points before we can realistically discuss the magnitude of the new target.”
As the conference draws to a close, negotiators face a challenging path ahead, with some NGOs warning that an agreement may elude them.
A Glimmer of Hope for a Political Breakthrough
Failing to produce a closing statement at a UN climate conference would be a significant setback, reminiscent of the 2009 Copenhagen meeting, which ended with mere acknowledgment of the final document, tarnishing the organizers’ reputation.
Wertli insists that no party should desire such an outcome. He noted a positive sign from China, as the delegation has begun to indicate the extent of its financial commitments to international climate efforts. “This is a promising development. For a global initiative to succeed, we need China to be onboard with the financial goals,” he emphasized.
Although NGOs have previously issued similar warnings, the complexity of this year’s negotiations will become clearer as discussions continue. As the final days approach, Wertli will step aside, with Federal Councilor Albert Rösti joining the talks in Baku. “The presence of a Federal Councilor and Minister of the Environment enhances our position and strengthens our negotiating power,” he stated.
Additionally, Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock is set to lead her country’s negotiations starting Wednesday. This is a typical scenario at climate conferences, where ambassadors lay the groundwork, and ministers step in during the crucial final stages. Environmental diplomats are hopeful that the involvement of high-level politicians will provide the necessary momentum to return to their nations with satisfactory outcomes.