The first week of COP30 (10–16 November 2025) in Belém wrapped up with mixed outcomes. While Parties moved forward on several agenda items, major political disagreements remain for Week Two.
Negotiations highlighted a growing gap between science and the current NDC-3 ambition. Developed countries pushed for stronger mitigation commitments and rigorous tracking through Biennial Transparency Reports, while developing nations stressed national circumstances and resisted additional procedural pressure. Debates intensified around unilateral trade measures (particularly CBAM) and interpretations of Article 2.1(c), which many developing countries see as threats to equity and fair trade.
Climate finance discussions focused heavily on Article 9.1, with developing countries demanding clear obligations, improved reporting, and scaled-up delivery. Developed countries resisted expanding reporting mandates. Calls to increase the NCQG and ensure predictable finance were repeated throughout the week.
On just transition, disagreements continued around linking the agenda to the 1.5°C goal, fossil fuel phase-out, labour and human rights, and means of implementation. A proposal from G77+China for a new “Belém Action Mechanism” met resistance from several developed countries.
Loss and Damage negotiations welcomed the first call for proposals from the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (USD 250 million), though Parties emphasized that the amount is far from sufficient. Governance questions, coordination among WIM, the Santiago Network, and FRLD, and replenishment needs will continue into Week Two.
The Gender Action Plan discussions also remained heavily bracketed due to disagreements over terminology, participation, and intersectionality.
Two major initiatives—the Belém Health Action Plan and the Tropical Forest Forever Facility—added momentum on health resilience and forest protection.
As COP30 enters its second week, ministers now face the challenge of closing political gaps and delivering decisions that match the urgency of the climate crisis.
