The 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, is set against a backdrop of political unrest and limited progress on climate goals. Cities and regions aim to build on successes from COP28, which included significant agreements like the UAE Consensus and the First Global Stocktake Outcomes, highlighting the importance of local governments in climate action. Bold agreements are required to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement. The period leading up to COP30 is critical, with new Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) expected in 2025. Seventy-four nations have endorsed the Coalition for High Ambition Multilevel Partnership (CHAMP) initiative, committing to include subnational governments in climate strategies. Local and regional leaders will represent these key messages at COP29.

As the focal point of the UNFCCC Local Governments and Municipal Authorities (LGMA) Constituency, the ICLEI network advocates for local and regional governments at COP29 to emphasize their role in achieving ambitious climate goals. They call for urgent multilevel governance, fossil fuel phase-out, integrated sustainability solutions, increased climate finance, collaboration for solutions etc.

The LGMA Constituency articulates a shared position with three essential appeals: promote rapid inclusive climate actions, invest in sustainable urbanization, and align climate efforts with developmental agendas.

To learn more about local and regional governments’ messages to COP29.