Azerbaijan, a nation bordering the Caspian Sea with a rich history in oil and gas production, has been chosen to host the 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29). The selection took place in December 2023 at COP28 in Dubai, concluding months of uncertainty surrounding the location of the critical climate summit.
Azerbaijan's candidacy emerged after a complex geopolitical balancing act. The Eastern European regional group required consensus to nominate a host, and initial bids from European Union nations were hampered by Russia's veto power, likely stemming from ongoing sanctions related to the Ukraine war. Further complicating matters, a long-standing feud with Armenia threatened to stall Azerbaijan's bid as each nation could veto the other's nomination within the regional group.
A breakthrough came late in the COP28 conference when Azerbaijan reportedly reached an agreement with Armenia, clearing the path for its nomination. This diplomatic maneuver, along with backing from other Eastern European nations, secured Azerbaijan's selection.
The selection of an oil-producing nation as the host of the climate conference has generated mixed reactions. Environmental groups have expressed concern, highlighting the potential for a conflict of interest. Azerbaijan relies heavily on fossil fuel exports, and some activists worry the nation might prioritize its own economic interests over ambitious climate action goals.
However, Azerbaijan has emphasized its commitment to environmental sustainability. Pointing to recent investments in renewable energy sources like wind and solar, the nation has pledged to work towards a successful COP29 that fosters international collaboration on climate solutions.
The upcoming conference in Baku, Azerbaijan's capital, will be a crucial platform for world leaders to address the looming climate crisis. Nations will gather to discuss ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, adapt to the changing environment, and secure funding for climate action in developing countries.
The success of COP29 will depend on Azerbaijan's ability to navigate these complex issues and bring together nations with often-diverging priorities. The world will be watching closely to see if this Caspian nation, with its rich history of hydrocarbon production, can also become a leader in the fight against climate change.