In a landmark diplomatic agreement, Turkey has been confirmed as the host nation for the next major UN climate summit, COP31, scheduled for late 2026. This decision resolves a prolonged two-year stand-off with Australia, which had also bid to host the conference.
An Unprecedented Compromise
The unique arrangement, struck during the COP30 talks in Belém, Brazil, will see the conference physically held in the Turkish resort city of Antalya. However, Australia's climate minister Chris Bowen will preside over the critical negotiations. Mr Bowen confirmed the deal on the sidelines of the summit, stating he would hold the full powers of a COP president.
These powers include appointing co-facilitators, preparing draft texts, and issuing the summit's final decisions. "It would be great if Australia could have it all, but we can't have it all," Mr Bowen remarked. "It was important to strike an agreement."
Strategic Wins for Both Nations
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hailed the compromise as "a big win for both Australia and Turkey." He emphasised that the deal would allow Canberra to concentrate its efforts on amplifying the voices of Pacific island nations, which are among the most vulnerable to climate change impacts.
Australia had initially pitched its bid as a "Pacific COP" and has already invested approximately A$7m (£3.6m) in preparations. Turkey, meanwhile, has stated its intention to use the conference to foster solidarity between wealthy and developing nations, though its government has not yet commented on the finalised arrangement.
Reactions and Future Implications
Environmental groups were quick to respond to the unusual split arrangement. David Ritter, chief executive of Greenpeace Australia Pacific, stressed that "Whatever the forum, whoever the president, the urgency and focus cannot change. Phasing out fossil fuels and ending deforestation must be at the core of the Cop31 agenda."
Analysts suggest the deal could ease the significant logistical and financial burdens of hosting a COP while granting both countries substantial diplomatic prominence. David Dutton, a former senior climate diplomat now with the Lowy Institute, noted that the arrangement "creates opportunities for Australia and the Pacific to do something meaningful with it."
Looking further ahead, Ethiopia was confirmed as the host for COP32 in 2027, with nations like India already bidding for the following year's summit.
