Australia to Lead COP31 Negotiations, Partnering with Türkiye and Pacific Nations

Australia Secures Key Leadership Role in COP31

Australia has officially been designated as the President of Negotiations for the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in 2026. This significant role was formalized through an agreement reached at COP30 in Belem, Brazil, following a period of negotiations between Australia and Türkiye. While Türkiye will host COP31 in Antalya, Australia will lead the substantive climate discussions in partnership with Türkiye and Pacific nations.

Under this arrangement, Australia will possess 'exclusive authority in relation to the negotiations' from the conclusion of COP30 until the end of COP31. This grants Australia and the Pacific an 'unprecedented influence' over global climate deliberations and actions throughout 2026. Chris Bowen, Australia's Minister for Climate Change and Energy, is slated to fulfill this crucial role.

Pacific Nations to Host Special Pre-COP Event

A central component of this collaborative effort is the scheduling of a special Pre-COP event in the Pacific in 2026. This event, which will be co-led by Australia and the Pacific, aims to bring global attention to the 'existential threat climate change poses to the region' and showcase Pacific climate impacts and solutions firsthand. The agenda for COP31 will also be strengthened to include a dedicated session focusing on the climate finance needs of Small Island Developing States, providing a platform for commitments to the Pacific Resilience Facility.

Context of the Agreement

The agreement resolves a previous impasse where both Australia (in partnership with Pacific nations) and Türkiye had put forward bids to host COP31. Australia had initially sought to host the conference in Adelaide. The compromise ensures that while Türkiye physically hosts the conference and World Leaders Summit, Australia will steer the negotiation process, working closely with Türkiye to identify champions for the action agenda and thematic priorities, including from the Pacific.

Forward-Looking Climate Action

This shared leadership model is intended to accelerate practical action and investment towards keeping global temperatures within safer limits and building resilience to climate impacts. It underscores Australia's renewed commitment to 'restoring its climate leadership' both domestically and internationally, and strengthening ties with its closest neighbors.