BAKU, Azerbaijan—The COP29 climate summit is currently underway, overshadowed by the aftermath of the U.S. presidential election where pro-fossil fuel Donald Trump emerged victorious. Various leaders and climate advocates from around the globe have gathered under the weight of significant uncertainty, questioning the future of international climate commitments, particularly the Paris Agreement.
Former Canadian Environment Minister Catherine McKenna, speaking at the conference, asserted, "The world must work together to fight climate change regardless of who's in the White House.” Her remarks came amid growing controversies surrounding not only the U.S. administration’s shifting stance on climate but also Azerbaijan’s controversial role as the host nation, which heavily relies on fossil fuel exports.
The first day of the conference saw discussions impacted by revelations of behind-the-scenes efforts to expand fossil fuel operations. A senior Azerbaijani COP29 official was reportedly caught on camera discussing plans for new oil and gas deals, igniting criticism about the integrity of the climate talks.
McKenna voiced concerns about the declining mood at COP29, noting, "It's hard... It does take some energy out of the room." She highlighted the fact many attendees feel somewhat exhausted by the cyclical nature of climate negotiations, particularly when one of the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitters shifts direction politically. Despite this, she emphasized the need for continued commitment—"Just because there's a new government it doesn’t mean the climate crisis isn’t accelerating."
With Trump poised to potentially withdraw from the Paris Agreement again, fears abound concerning the U.S.'s role on the global stage. At the conference, questions about America’s future contributions to climate policies echoed across many press conferences. John Podesta, Biden’s senior climate adviser, attempted to assure attendees, stating, "The work to contain climate change is going to continue with commitment and passion," indicating plans to release new guidelines irrespective of the Trump administration's policies.
Comparatively, the mood at COP29 reflects the larger discourse surrounding the credibility of international efforts to fight climate change. Some experts warn of growing 'COP fatigue'—a notion expressing concerns about the increasing size and decreasing effectiveness of these large conferences, which have become mired in logistical challenges and grandstanding.
Benito Müller from the University of Oxford characterized these talks as having grown too unwieldy, lamenting, “They have grown organically, without any steering.” The attendance at COP has skyrocketed over the years; from less than 5,000 at the initial talks to over 85,000 last year. Many hope to streamline future negotiations, possibly by breaking them down to smaller, more focused events.
The ever-expanding nature of COP events may dilute the urgent need for actionable resolutions. Müller noted the shift from meaningful negotiations aimed at cutting emissions to more symbolic gestures, where countries feel pressured to attend and present without concrete commitments. Building upon last year’s Dubai COP28, where agriculture was spotlighted, this year’s summit aims to increase climate financing for food systems, yet funding goals remain disputed among nations.
This debate over financing highlights key tensions at COP29, particularly between developed countries and their developing counterparts. Many developing nations are urging more substantial financial aid to adapt to climate impacts. For example, the Agriculture sector received only $29 billion last year compared to the estimated $1 trillion needed annually until 2030 to meet net-zero targets.
Participants are particularly eager to see discussions on the new collective quantified goal, the NCQG, which is connected to meeting the funding targets set under the Paris Agreement. Some critics voiced concerns about the U.S. diminishing role compared to rising players like the European Union, which is starting to take the lead on climate finance and adaptation.
The discussions pivoted around how nations will deliver on the promises made, especially the ambitious UAE Declaration on Sustainable Agriculture, Resilient Food Systems, and Climate Action, from COP28. Countries have pledged to integrate food systems transformation within their climate action plans, known as nationally determined contributions (NDCs).
Throughout the summit, notable announcements occurred, such as the UK committing to reduce emissions by 81% by 2030, and Brazil targeting similar ambitious reductions by 2035. Yet critiques emphasized the need for concrete action rather than broad proclamations.
Meanwhile, scenes of stark contrasts have emerged within the venue itself, with the U.S. pavilion—a modest space featuring plain furniture—drawing comparisons to the flamboyant presentations of nations like Kazakhstan and the UK, which boasted grand displays and hospitality. One U.S. delegate expressed shock at the lack of effort put forth on their end. “A more ambitious effort would help show we care,” they remarked.
Backed by tangible commitments and mobilization priorities, many are questioning whether the COP format itself needs rethinking. Calls for more focused summits reflect frustration with the spectacle over substance culture permeated throughout these global meetings. Müller suggested, “We’re going to get climate fatigue,” urging for significant reform to channel discussions toward actionable steps.
Despite the high stakes, there is hope yet. Voicing collective determination, McKenna acknowledged the bumps along the road, stating, “The energy transition is well underway.” While the looming influence of the Trump administration has generated uncertainty, advocates are resolute about pushing on, stressing, "We don’t have a choice but to move forward,” adding to the clarion call for sustained momentum to combat the climate crisis.
