Beyond COP: Why the Bonn Climate Talks Matter

Author: Klara Butz, Finance Campaigner

In the climate space, COP is often seen as the most important UNFCCC meeting of the year. But it’s not the only one that matters. Every June, country delegations from around the world meet in Bonn, Germany - the home of the UNFCCC - for the annual intersessional negotiations. These meetings may not make headlines, but they play a key role in shaping what happens at COP.

What Really Happens in Bonn?

The Bonn sessions are meant to prepare the groundwork for the upcoming COP. Delegates work on draft texts, refine negotiating positions, and build consensus. At least, that’s the intention. In reality, these meetings often get stuck in lengthy discussions about agendas and procedures. Progress can be painfully slow, and at times, it feels like there’s more talk about how to continue than actual continuation.

Still, these negotiations are the best we’ve got. That’s why hundreds of civil society representatives also show up. We’re there to advocate for strong language, ensure critical issues stay on the table, and hold governments accountable.

Civil Society in Action

For me, the meetings in Bonn were an important space to strategize with partners, highlight current reports, and join discussions. The first week of negotiations featured a range of workshops and breakout sessions.

One session focused on Article 2.1(c) of the Paris Agreement: “making finance flows consistent with a pathway towards low greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and climate-resilient development.” Shockingly, some country delegates argued that more money should go to oil and gas companies to help them reduce methane emissions. Considering that, since 2.1(c) was agreed upon, the world’s biggest banks have poured nearly USD 8 trillion into fossil fuel companies, I think they’ve had more than enough support already.

Spotlight on Brazil and COP 30

With COP 30 set to take place in Brazil, there was significant attention on the host country. While Brazil’s negotiators worked on climate policies in Bonn, their government was auctioning off new oil and gas exploration blocks in the Amazon. This is not the kind of behavior we should expect from a COP host.

In response, The Climate Reality Project is encouraging the COP 30 presidency to commit to four key points:

·       Not using the COP presidency to expand fossil fuel production

·       No fossil fuel industry representatives on the COP presidency team

·       Ensure safe and accessible participation at COP 30 by civil society

·       Prioritize outcomes and initiatives consistent with the Paris Agreement

You can take part in this call, too. Send a message to the COP 30 president and urge them to lead with integrity and ambition. 

Photo by 350.org

The Influence of Fossil Fuel Lobbyists

One point that cannot be overstated is the influence of the fossil fuel lobby. Last year, 1,773 fossil fuel lobbyists attended COP - more than all but three country delegations. These lobbyists are not there to solve the climate crisis. In fact, 95% of oil and gas producers are still expanding their operations.

If you're expanding fossil fuel production, you don’t belong at climate conferences. We're here to work on solutions, not delays. Add your name to our letter to COP 30 delegations, calling on them to keep fossil fuel lobbyists out of the negotiations.

The Bigger Picture: Reforming UN Climate Talks

These demands are part of a broader call for systemic reform of the UN climate process. Alongside 200 organizations, we are pushing for more transparency, fewer conflicts of interest, and a restoration of equity and accountability.

As our joint statement puts it:

“The time is now for the UNFCCC to become the climate regime it should have been for the past decades: one centered around international law and obligations to prevent dangerous climate change. And one that delivers what it was intended to: climate justice for all.”