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Fatima Latifova

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Ursula von der Leyen’s decision not to attend the upcoming COP29 climate summit, considering the global significance of combating climate change, has sparked considerable criticism. This decision can be understood as weakening her leadership claims in the fight against climate change and ignoring calls for decisive international cooperation.

It is important to note that COP summits are significant platforms where countries across the world come together to take concrete actions against climate change. Von der Leyen’s absence from such an important meeting undermines the role of the European Union in global climate policy. As the President of the European Commission, her physical presence could have demonstrated the EU’s serious position on climate issues. However, this decision casts doubt on the importance von der Leyen and the EU place on combating climate change and their commitment to addressing this pressing issue.

The European Union, as one of the world’s largest economic powers, is expected to take a leadership role in the fight against climate change and set an example for developed countries in this regard. The EU’s climate policies, particularly initiatives such as the Green Deal and Fit for 55, have been making significant strides. However, von der Leyen’s absence from COP29 raises questions about Europe’s serious commitment to climate action. Rather than confirming its leadership in global climate policy, this decision gives the impression that the EU is adopting a more passive and responsibility-avoiding stance on the issue.

It should also be emphasized that climate change is one of the most severe global threats, not only to ecosystems but also to human life, economies, and social structures. International cooperation is crucial in preventing or mitigating its effects. Von der Leyen’s decision to skip the largest UN climate summit at such a critical time could damage the EU’s credibility, particularly among developing countries, who may begin to question the EU’s commitment to fighting climate change.

Furthermore, the EU has sometimes imposed stringent demands on developing countries, especially urging them to take more rigorous actions against climate change. However, von der Leyen’s own absence from COP29 creates the impression that the EU is not seriously adhering to its own commitments. This creates a paradox, especially for developing nations: Europe advocates that developed countries fulfill their climate obligations, but when it comes to its own involvement, it pulls back.

The UN Climate Summit is one of the key platforms for collective action against the world’s largest climate challenges. European leaders, particularly figures like Ursula von der Leyen, should participate in such high-level meetings to demonstrate their—and the EU’s—serious commitment to climate policy. Her absence from this summit could pose a serious obstacle to achieving the necessary progress in the fight against climate change.

It is also regrettable that, while a country like Azerbaijan—whose economy is nearly 95% dependent on oil and gas production—has taken on significant responsibilities in the fight against the climate crisis, a high-ranking official from a major organization like the European Union would remain absent from this crucial process.

Recall that Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, will host the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP 29) for the first time in the region from November 11–22, 2024. The decision was made at the plenary session of COP28 on December 11. Azerbaijan successfully participated in the COP28 held in Abu Dhabi last year.

Azerbaijan will take the opportunity to bring heads of state and governments, civil society organisations, business, and international institutions together in the South Caucasus to discuss climate change, measures to accelerate the implementation of the Paris Agreement, and focus on long-term climate strategies and goals.

It is worth noting that Azerbaijan confirmed its commitment to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases by 35 percent by 2030 and increase this target by 40 percent by 2050. Fulfilling the commitments under the Paris Agreement adopted in 2015 and actively working in this regard are priority issues for the government of Azerbaijan.

The Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) has been held annually since 1995. The event aims to assess the progress made in combating climate change around the world.