COP29, the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference, will take place from November 11 to 22 in Baku, Azerbaijan. This conference marks
a significant milestone, with Azerbaijan hosting the event for the first time, showcasing its commitment to climate action. In anticipation of this grand event, we had the opportunity to speak with representatives from the COP29 Presidency Team and members of the Organising Committee. They shared insights about the ongoing preparations for the conference with NARGIS Magazine.
INTERVIEW NIGAR MAHARRAMOVA, VALERIA VASILEVA
PHOTO PARVIZ GASIMZADE, ELMAR MUSTAFAZADE
Mukhtar Babayev, COP29 President-Designate
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Could you walk us through Azerbaijan’s main initiatives within the framework of COP29?
Our top priority and central negotiating item are the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance (NCQG) for the climate agenda. We believe this will be the primary deliverable of COP29; however, there are other issues that will generate vital discussions. These include full operationalisation of both Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, and the Fund for responding to Loss and Damage. We also need to discuss the simplification of access to financial resources. Additionally, we have topics such as the conservation of forests, rivers, oceans, seas, health, education, food security, agriculture, and more. In general, the focus of COP29 presents a critical moment to enhance ambition and enable the urgently needed climate action to address the climate crisis.
How can countries strengthen cooperation to achieve the goals and address the issues you've mentioned, during and after COP29?
From the beginning of the year, our COP29 team has visited as many party countries as possible to consult on Parties’ expectations and visions for advancing the climate agenda. Throughout the year, we have met with international organisations, Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs), international financial institutions, civil society and participated in various forums and conferences, where we delivered our vision for COP29. Another important step for us is to ensure maximum inclusivity by engaging with all stakeholders. This engagement has helped us gain a better understanding of what parties want, which is the first step to ensuring the right cooperation moving forward.
As an oil-producing country and the host of COP29, what are Azerbaijan’s future activities regarding this matter?
As a country with a long history in oil and gas production, Azerbaijan has simultaneously prioritised the green agenda, investing heavily in renewable energy and establishing itself as a regional leader in energy transition efforts. Our President, His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, has placed green growth at the forefront of Azerbaijan’s economic strategy, driving transformative change across all sectors. This vision is already producing tangible results, evident in the growing number of active projects, with even more planned for the near future. This momentum is especially meaningful as this year has been declared by the President as the “Green World Solidarity Year.”
Overall, what are your expectations for the upcoming event?
If I had to sum it up in two words: transparency and continuity. With thousands of attendees coming to Azerbaijan, our goal as a welcoming nation is to offer the utmost comfort, transparency, and inclusivity throughout the process. To support this, our team has launched 14 initiatives across nearly every sector – from energy, economy, and finance to agriculture, health, skills development, and more.
This forum is essential for building on previous successes and driving new initiatives introduced at COP29 forward. If we look at the global scale, in your opinion, what will Azerbaijan’s place be after COP29 is over?
We are confident that Azerbaijan will continue to maintain its leadership on climate issues. For four years, we chaired the Non-Aligned Movement, showcasing our diplomatic efforts and engaging with other member states on a range of global issues. As a responsible international actor and a nation vulnerable to climate impacts, Azerbaijan will maintain its domestic commitments and remain active in global climate efforts. Building on this experience, our ongoing COP29 Presidency offers a valuable opportunity to further highlight our green growth initiatives and commitment to sustainable development.
The focus of COP29 presents a critical moment to enhance ambition and enable the urgently needed climate action to address the climate crisis.
Elnur Soltanov, Chief Executive Officer of COP29
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Our primary task at COP29 is to address this debate and identify the necessary funding.
What is COP29?
Many perceive COP29 as a generic ecological event, and that’s not entirely accurate. The specific concern of this conference is about reducing greenhouse gasses to zero globally, hopefully by 2050, so that the world has a fighting chance to limit warming to 1.5 degrees. The current trajectory indicates that we are on course to increase average temperatures to 3 degrees, if not more, which will probably result in existentially unacceptable consequences for humanity. The equally important issue is adaptation – that is, how we adapt to the already occurring negative consequences of global warming, with a specific emphasis on Small Island Developing Countries and Least Developed Countries. The specific task of COP29 will be raising enough climate finance that is adequate for the urgency and scale of this climate crisis.
So, the situation isn’t very promising?
The situation is worsening almost day by day. The window of opportunity is closing fast, and by delaying climate action every day, we are increasing the human and material cost exponentially. Technology and finance is almost totally there – we simply need collective action and collective political will to solve this existential crisis. The meaning of the COP29 slogan stems from this understanding – In Solidarity for a Green World. Now.
So, it turns out that COP conferences, which started in 1995, have not yielded results?
The world emitted more greenhouse gasses after 1992 than before it. There are improvements, but the pace of climate action and finance is not in line with the scale of the crisis. Yet there is no place and time for pessimism. Science is developing, our ability to monitor is enhancing, societal and political sensitivity is rising, and very passionate and clever people are coming up with creative solutions. We are almost there, but we need to push over the top.
Are there any sanctions if the Paris Agreement is not followed?
The most important treaty current negotiations are centering around is UNFCCC’s Paris Agreement. By this document, parties are required to submit national climate plans every 5 years, but there is no obligation to implement them. This mainly stems from the nature
of the international system, composed of sovereign states, which usually don’t tend cooperate easily. We cannot change the system, so we need to find solutions around it.
What are your expectations for this year’s COP?
We need a higher amount of international finance from developed countries to developing countries, along with the “common but differentiated responsibilities” concept. How much higher? The new finance goal should be aligned with 1.5 North Star; anything else will not be adequate.
What does hosting COP mean for Azerbaijan?
Azerbaijan is using its procedural and convening powers for the parties to make perhaps the most crucial decision regarding climate crisis-financing, while demonstrating intensive and creative leadership. There will be political, economic and societal dividends as byproducts of this conference for our country. The best way to serve Azerbaijan’s interests in this process is through serving the interests of humanity, especially its vulnerable segments. Our leadership and contributions to providing solutions to the most acute global problem the world is facing will be a source of pride for our state and nation for decades to come.
Nigar Arpadarai, UN Climate Change High-Level Champion for COP29
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Our goal is for countries to agree on specific funding targets and to clarify how these funds will be allocated and utilised.
What is your role at COP29?
At COP29, I serve as the UN Climate Change High-Level Champion – a role focused on bridging the efforts of national governments with the dynamic, frontline work of non-State actors. This includes collaborating with a wide range of stakeholders: from CEOs and NGOs to city mayors, youth leaders, Indigenous Peoples, and university academics. The aim is to foster coordinated climate action that leverages the strengths and insights of each group for meaningful progress.
What is new specifically about COP29?
The primary theme of COP29 is climate finance, with a particular focus on creating mechanisms to ensure that the most vulnerable countries have access to essential funding. Involving the private sector is critical to addressing this challenge, making COP29 a pivotal moment in shaping financial commitments. Our goal is for countries to agree on specific funding targets and to clarify how these funds will be allocated and utilised. COP29 will serve as a platform to foster these agreements, and our role is to build an environment of trust, paving the way for historic progress in climate finance.
What mechanisms do you use for effective dialogue with the private sector?
I am focusing on the central role of businesses – especially small businesses – can and must play in shaping and implementing the collective roadmap for a new economy and ensuring their voices are heard at COP29 and beyond recognising that each has a unique role in the transition to sustainable development. Large companies are increasingly integrating sustainability into their strategies due
to investor expectations and reputational factors. However, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) often struggle with limited access to finance and resources. To address this, we prioritise supporting SMEs by collaborating with global organisations to develop training materials and programmes that equip small entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools to adapt and thrive in this transition.
What is the public awareness of climate issues in relation to Azerbaijan's chairmanship of the COP?
Since Azerbaijan assumed the COP29 chairmanship, public interest – particularly from the private sector – has significantly increased. In just a few months, numerous companies have committed to green practices, signing declarations to support sustainable development. The recent Baku Climate Action Week further highlighted society’s readiness to engage in climate action, showcasing widespread enthusiasm for the cause. Azerbaijan is now actively participating in global climate discussions and is committed to advancing climate initiatives beyond COP29, fostering long-term awareness and action.
What initiatives are planned after COP29?
Our COP29 chairmanship extends through the end of next year, with plans to remain actively involved, including at COP30 in Brazil. We've launched 14 initiatives that span key areas such as green transition, energy, agriculture, water, and human development. Of these, 9 initiatives focus on declarations, and 5 centre on partnerships. These initiatives and partnerships aim to drive substantial, coordinated climate action well beyond COP29.
Kamal Mammadov, Head of Accessibility Function at COP29
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I think my mission is to help and inspire people who are in the same life situation as me.
What does it mean to you personally to be involved in a large-scale event like COP29?
I have been in a wheelchair for 20 years and throughout that time I have experienced and felt all the issues related to disability and the environment. Events like this give you a chance to make a change in the city and the community. I have been through all these changes and in the European Games 2015 and the Islamic Games, in all these events I led the accessibility team. I think my mission is to help and inspire people who are in the same life situation as me. When I was invited to work at COP29 I happily accepted, it's what I love and can do.
How will this year's conference be different from previous ones?
I have analysed the conferences of the last years and the biggest problem was that at no time during the conferences were people with hearing and speech difficulties taken into account. For the first time, our conference will use a sign language interpretation. The same hall will be equipped with an induction system that allows hearing impaired people to hear with special hearing aids. The tactile map at the entrance is provided for visually impaired people, by touching them they will receive full information about the venue and the location of key objects. They will also be provided with tactile booklets that they can carry with them. We used every opportunity to make it easier for them to be at the conference: special stickers on stairs and glass doors, contrast between doors and walls, and other devices. 427 in the Blue zone and 99 in the Green zone near the door will have inscriptions in the Braille alphabet for the visually impaired individuals and they were written by our visually impaired people. These are all very important things. All the ramps have also been brought up to standard.
What other measures have been taken for people with disabilities?
The fact is that disability or disabilities are not always visible from the outside. It can be people with hearing limitations or autistic disorders. We have made provisions for them to wear “sunflower lanyards” so that they are in the spotlight and can get help if necessary. In addition, there is a special noise-isolated room with special light and music, where everyone can relax from stress. Another innovation was suggested by me, based on previous experience. When travelling, it is a problem for me that I have to put my wheelchair in the luggage. There were also problems with the wheel tyres after the flight. That's why we have a special first aid team for the wheelchair service. Even sockets for electric wheelchairs are provided. We are also conducting training sessions with everyone who will interact with people with disabilities.
Will this experience probably be adopted by future conferences?
The right statistics will make the job of the next conference hosts very easy. I have prepared perfect statistics with all the details included, and correct accounting of certain groups. I hope I can be helpful in this important endeavour.
Leyla Hasanova, Youth Climate Champion for COP29
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The first-ever Human Development Day (November 18) will take a holistic view of climate change.
Tell us about your role within COP 29.
The Presidency Youth Climate Champion (PYCC) role was established last year at COP28. It aims to enhance and encourage the inclusive engagement of children and young people in climate decision-making and policy processes by utilising the unique position of each COP Presidency. My role is to bridge the COP presidency and youth from all around the globe.
What activities are planned for youth at COP29?
We have launched the Regional COP29 Youth Delegate Programme, which will equip young people with the technical knowledge and skills needed to participate effectively in climate discussions. One of the success stories that I would like to share is the Children and Youth Pavilion in Blue Zone, which came after years of advocacy because there was no place for youth there. Accordingly, this space is more than just a pavilion for youth – it’s their home. There is also a space for youth at COP29’s Green Zone, which is hosted by the Ministry of Youth and Sports. At COP29, gender equality and youth empowerment will be considered as elements across all thematic days. The first-ever Human Development / Children & Youth Day (November 18) will take a holistic view of climate change that treats human development, youth, health and education as interrelated issues to be supported.
How do you involve young people, and who exactly are they?
Through capacity-building initiatives and the programs that I have previously mentioned, we get the chance to attract and involve young people in our climate initiatives. They were tailored for young people aged between 18 and 35. Also, there is a huge network of young people who are part of the YOUNGO – the official children and youth constituency of UNFCCC, which has more than 10000 members. One of my main priorities this year was putting children at the heart of climate discussions, as it poses significant threats to their health. Their voices are crucial in shaping a sustainable future.
What does their participation translate into?
We conduct monthly consultations with youth from various regions and continents to hear their voices so they are being amplified as a result. We hear of concerns and suggestions of young climate advocates from a given region which all are combined within a database. As a result, we reshape the PYCC’s agenda accordingly to ensure an effective and meaningful participation of global youth. Consequently, we consider the data upon the submission of the final milestone, aka The Global Youth Statement, including voices of world children and youth.
What strategies exist in global practice for engaging youth in climate issues, and are being applied here?
The first and most important strategy is capacity building and awareness raising for children and youth. During my interventions and speeches, I always mention these 4 important words: Education is the key. This is where I began my work, as I was interested in how the global community and UN Climate Change engage youth. A few months ago, we hosted the inaugural COP29 climate change summer camp for young educators. We brought together 75 teachers from 35 countries, including 20 educators from Azerbaijan. Distinguished experts trained them on the fundamentals of climate change and how it can be tackled. I hope this becomes an annual practice as it creates a domino effect by reaching out to a wider audience through these teachers who aspire to pass down their skills and knowledge.
Firuza Sultan-zade, Chairperson of the Board of “EkoSfera” Social-Ecology Center
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Our main programme aims to inform children and youth.
What exactly do you do within COP29?
The NGO “EkoSfera”, a Social-Ecology Center, has become one of the four non-governmental organisations at COP29. We have received observer status and entered the blue zone. In line with the focus of our work, we represent the age group of children and young people. Our main programme aims to inform children and youth, and we collaborate closely with other representatives of the organising committee.
How long has the Information Centre been operating?
The Information Centre began its work on 27 June and aims to inform the public about preparations for COP, as well as climate issues. It will remain open until November, and we are currently discussing the format it will take after the conference. We have proposed a programme to activate the centre, holding activities for children every Saturday and Sunday. These include environmental masterclasses, playful educational sessions on climate, dance workshops, yoga, music performances, and chess tournaments. Schools are actively involved, with children attending the events we organise throughout the centre.
We also offer thematic sessions for adults, inviting experts to discuss topics such as waste management, health, urban ecology, cookery, and other climate- related issues. All events are designed to raise awareness of climate issues and generate interest
in COP29 and its preparations. We actively collaborate with various organisations and support community initiatives. Everyone is welcome to come and participate.
What are the main issues to be discussed at COP29?
One of the key challenges today is to keep the global temperature rise to within 1.5 degrees Celsius. This is a critical threshold, beyond which the negative consequences may become irreversible. A rise of three degrees would lead to catastrophic changes, making the stabilisation of temperature at 1.5 degrees a priority. Baku is expected to focus on sustainable development, priorities for temperature reduction, and the role of each individual, including children and young people. It is crucial to convey that everyone can and must contribute to the fight against climate change. Special attention will be given to younger generations, who will be most affected by climate change. COP29 will address not only temperature but also various related issues: financing climate initiatives, supporting island states vulnerable to climate change, and ensuring inclusivity for women and children. A special pavilion will be organised for children to engage in climate-related discussions and activities. Initiatives like this help children recognise the importance of their role in preserving the planet and developing the skills needed to adapt to changing conditions.
Nargiz Abdullayeva, Art Curator of COP29
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Our aim is to showcase not just art, but also the symbolism of nature.
Tell us about the exhibitions that will take place at COP29.
I am currently curating several exhibitions that will take place in both the Green Zone and the Blue Zone. The main events and sessions will be held in the Blue Zone, which is divided into various categories, including VIP areas that will host a range of exhibitions and installations.
We are paying particular attention to the exhibition from Azerbaijan. Given the busy schedule of COP guests, many often do not have time to visit museums, so we decided to bring the museum experience directly to the venue. One of the key exhibitions
is “Symbols of Nature.” Three national museums will participate: The National Carpet Museum, the National Museum of Art, and the National Museum of History of Azerbaijan. Our aim is to showcase not just art, but also the symbolism of nature reflected
in these works.
What elements of national culture will be first of all presented for the guests to get acquainted with?
Guests will explore Azerbaijani culture through carpets, ceramics, and metalwork, highlighting the nation's rich artistic heritage. The carpets, dyed with plant-based colours, symbolise the four elements of life, while pottery and copper pots feature motifs like birds, animals, and the Tree of Life. These works reflect the skill and imagination of ancient Azerbaijani artists. 10-metre Carpet “Global Climate Change: Woven Stripes” created by "Azerkhalcha" OJSC, Shabran Carpet Studio draws inspiration from Professor
Ed Hawkins' (University of Reading) "Show Your Stripes" project and visually represents the dramatic shifts in average annual temperatures from 1850 to 2022 through bold, captivating stripes. Seamlessly woven into this design are the iconic skyscrapers of Azerbaijan’s skyline, proudly showcasing Baku as the esteemed host city for COP29.
A dedicated section of the exhibition will focus on the Palace of the Shaki Khans, showcasing around 20 replicas of frescoes. The exhibition will also showcase artworks by artist Aida Mahmudova, themed around COP29. Additionally, Aida Mahmudova
has commissioned a one-day symposium on art advocacy, climate care, and sustainable futures, featuring prominent speakers from the GCC region, Europe, Central Asia, and the South Caucasus. The program aims to foster further discussions on sustainability across these regions.
Will the event feature works by international artists?
Yes, the event will feature a variety of works by international artists, including Italian sculptor Lorenzo Quinn with his piece "Creation-Thursday" from the Genesis Series, and photographer Brad Wilson, whose exhibition will showcase Azerbaijani wildlife. In the Green Zone, there will be daily activities on Azerbaijani folk arts and crafts, such as "shebeke" and "hessir," and a collaboration with the National Museum of Georgia to display nature-related artefacts and host lectures. Additionally, a dedicated day will highlight inclusive projects, featuring works by students from the DOST Inclusive Centre and a performance by the Dance Ability group.
