By: Chinyere Patience Onyeocha and Solomon Onyema Ezeja
COP31, the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference, is scheduled to take place in Antalya, Türkiye, from 9–20 November 2026. It will bring together governments, policymakers, civil society organisations, businesses and researchers to discuss international climate action under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
The conference is expected to focus on implementing existing climate commitments and advancing efforts to limit global warming to 1.5°C.
Key issues on the COP31 agenda
- Climate mitigation: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and accelerating the transition from fossil fuels to clean energy.
- Climate adaptation: Helping vulnerable communities respond to droughts, floods, rising sea levels and other climate impacts.
- Climate finance: Improving financial support for developing countries to implement climate action, particularly adaptation measures.
- Just transition: Ensuring that the shift to a low-carbon economy protects livelihoods and supports affected communities.
- Gender equality: Promoting women’s participation in climate decision-making and addressing the disproportionate effects of climate change on women and girls.
- Water and sanitation: Strengthening water security and financing climate adaptation measures related to water and sanitation.
- Climate justice: Addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly communities in the Global South and small island developing states.
Host arrangements
Türkiye will host COP31 and oversee the conference’s logistical and operational arrangements. Australia is expected to play a significant role in the negotiations, with particular attention to climate challenges affecting Pacific island nations. A pre-COP meeting is also planned in a Pacific island country.
Role of NGOs and civil society
Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) will advocate for vulnerable communities, influence climate policy discussions and promote greater accountability for climate commitments. Organisations such as WaterAid Netherlands will emphasise water justice, access to clean water and sanitation, and increased grant-based funding for climate adaptation.
Expected outcomes
COP31 is expected to emphasise:
- Stronger implementation of national emissions-reduction commitments.
- Progress on climate adaptation and the Global Goal on Adaptation.
- Improved delivery of climate finance to developing countries.
- Continued discussions on fossil fuels and deforestation.
- Greater attention to gender equality, water security and climate justice.
- Increased support for communities most vulnerable to climate change.
Conclusion: COP31 will provide an important international platform for advancing climate action, strengthening adaptation, mobilising climate finance and addressing the needs of vulnerable communities. Its significance will depend on how effectively governments translate their commitments into practical, measurable results.
Note: The agenda and expected outcomes above reflect the supplied article’s account and expectations, not confirmed final decisions of COP31.
