COP30: Ambition Falls Short

Following the conclusion of the 2025 climate negotiations in Belém, Brazil, European Parliament members expressed their concerns over the outcomes of COP30, highlighting a significant gap between global climate aspirations and the commitments needed to address urgent climate issues effectively.

Lídia Pereira, chair of the European Parliament delegation, noted that despite strong efforts and a clear mandate for fossil fuel phase-out, the delegation faced strong opposition from BRICS and Arab nations, as well as a less ambitious presidency. Although some progress was made, including the acknowledgment of the emissions gap and initiatives like the Belém 1.5°C Mission, the overall results were deemed insufficient in hastening meaningful climate action. Adaptation finance within the new collective quantified goal on climate finance framework was secured, recommending a tripling of support by 2035 to aid the most vulnerable nations.

Mohammed Chahim, vice-chair of the delegation, pointed out the minimal advancements made at COP30, emphasizing the stark disparity between current efforts and what is required to effectively tackle the climate crisis. He underscored the geopolitical challenges and resistance from oil-producing nations which hindered significant progress, leaving the European Union in a position where it must urgently seek new alliances to avoid isolation in future negotiations.

The 30th United Nations climate conference saw the European Parliament delegation actively participating from November 17th to 21st, engaging in discussions on the future of EU climate policy and reviewing the progress since the Paris Agreement. Despite setbacks, the delegation remains committed to advocating for heightened global climate action in line with scientific recommendations.