Istanbul, Türkiye – As preparations intensify for the 31st Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP31), scheduled to take place in Türkiye in 2026, the Turkish government has convened a meeting with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to foster collaboration and gather input ahead of the pivotal summit. This move underscores Türkiye’s commitment to a successful COP31 and its ambition to translate climate pledges into concrete action. The upcoming conference is seen as a critical juncture in global efforts to address climate change, particularly in the wake of increasingly urgent scientific warnings and visible impacts worldwide.
The meeting, organized by Turkish authorities, aims to ensure that the perspectives of civil society are integrated into the planning and execution of COP31. According to reports, discussions centered on key priorities for the summit, including mitigation strategies, adaptation measures, and climate finance. The UN Climate Chief, Simon Stiell, has recently called for an “era of implementation” leading up to COP31, emphasizing the demand to move beyond commitments and deliver tangible results. [1] This call for action reflects a growing international consensus that the pace of climate action is insufficient to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement.
Türkiye’s Growing Renewable Energy Capacity
Alongside preparations for COP31, Türkiye has been making strides in expanding its renewable energy capacity. Recent data indicates that renewable energy sources now account for 62% of the country’s total installed capacity. [5] This significant increase, highlighted by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, demonstrates Türkiye’s commitment to diversifying its energy mix and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels. The expansion of renewable energy is not only crucial for mitigating climate change but similarly for enhancing energy security and promoting sustainable economic development.
International Context and Expectations for COP31
COP31 is expected to build upon the outcomes of previous climate conferences, including COP28 held in Dubai in late 2023. A key focus of COP31 will be to assess progress towards the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, preferably to 1.5 degrees Celsius, compared to pre-industrial levels. The summit will also address critical issues such as loss and damage funding for vulnerable countries, adaptation strategies for communities already experiencing the impacts of climate change, and the mobilization of financial resources to support climate action in developing nations. [3] Australia is set to lead government talks at the summit, working alongside Türkiye as the host nation. [5]
UN Calls for Concrete Action
UN experts have emphasized the need for concrete steps to be taken at COP31 to accelerate climate action. [1] The UN Resident Coordinator in Türkiye recently met with the country’s Chief Climate Negotiator to discuss preparations for the summit and to underscore the importance of ambitious climate policies. [2] This engagement highlights the UN’s commitment to supporting Türkiye in its role as host and to ensuring that COP31 is a success. The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, has repeatedly stressed the urgency of the climate crisis and the need for all countries to increase their efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Regional Stakes and Geopolitical Considerations
As a nation bridging Europe and Asia, Türkiye’s role in hosting COP31 carries significant regional weight. The country’s geopolitical position and its relationships with both European and Middle Eastern nations provide a unique platform for fostering dialogue and cooperation on climate issues. The success of COP31 could strengthen Türkiye’s standing as a regional leader in climate action and contribute to greater stability in a region vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including water scarcity, extreme weather events, and migration. The conference also presents an opportunity for Türkiye to showcase its own efforts to transition to a low-carbon economy and to promote sustainable development.
Looking ahead, the focus will be on Türkiye to translate its hosting role into tangible outcomes at COP31. The ability to forge consensus among diverse stakeholders, mobilize financial resources, and accelerate the implementation of climate policies will be crucial for the success of the summit. The international community will be closely watching Türkiye’s leadership as it navigates the complex challenges of addressing climate change on a global scale.
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