Negotiations on Climate Change – Third Module of GMACC in Bolivia

As part of the Global Project for Mitigation and Adaptation to Climate Change (GMACC), the third module of the related training initiative "Camino a la COP30", focused on “Negotiations on Climate Change” and brought together Bolivian civil society organizations from the Plataforma Boliviana Frente al Cambio Climático (PBFCC) network for three informative sessions between May 26 to May 30. With the participation of national and international experts, the sessions provided an in-depth look into how climate negotiations work, the history and structures of international climate agreements, and the specific opportunities for engagement by civil society, Indigenous groups, youth, and local leaders.

From Climate Justice to Global Agreements

The module opened with an insightful session by Marcos Nordgren, Bolivian biologist and environmental researcher, who introduced participants to the evolution of international climate policy - from the early 1979 World Climate Conference to the 1992 Rio Earth Summit, and landmark agreements such as the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement. Nordgren emphasized the shift in global climate governance from binding emission cuts imposed on developed countries (under Kyoto) to nationally determined commitments (under Paris), highlighting the importance of equity, ambition, and progressive updates in the global effort to keep warming below 1.5°C.

Crucially, Nordgren framed these negotiations through the lens of climate justice, explaining how the climate crisis intersects with human rights, social inequality, and development. Vulnerable communities, particularly women, rural populations, and youth, face the majority of climate impacts while having contributed the least to global emissions. The session concluded with a discussion on sectoral pathways to emission reductions, including sustainable energy, transport, waste management, industry, and infrastructure.

How the UNFCCC Works – Spaces for Influence

The second session, led by Laura Restrepo Alameda of Climate Action Network Latin America (CAN-LA), focused on understanding the UNFCCC structure, its decision-making processes, and the roles of various stakeholders. With 198 parties, the UNFCCC includes negotiating bodies like COP, CMA, and SBSTA, and relies on mechanisms such as the Green Climate Fund, technology partnerships, and committees on adaptation and finance.

Restrepo outlined how official delegations, accredited NGOs, Indigenous peoples, labor unions, youth, and women’s groups interact in these negotiations. She highlighted the limited but important role of civil society, which (although it cannot vote) can influence outcomes through side events, informal consultations, and media advocacy. Participants also explored the themes dominating COP discussions today, including mitigation, adaptation, loss and damage, climate finance, just transition, and Article 6 carbon markets.

First-Hand Insights from Experienced Delegate

The module concluded with a dynamic dialogue featuring two Bolivian COP veterans: Juan Carlos Alarcón Reyes of the PBFCC and Wara Iris Ruiz Condori, journalist, climate activist, and environmental advocate.

Ruiz Condori spoke about her pathway into climate negotiations, driven by a background in journalism and a commitment to environmental justice. She emphasized the importance of increasing the presence of women and Indigenous leaders at international forums and shared practical advice on networking, staying informed, and influencing decisions effectively.

Alarcón Reyes added strategic insights on how grassroots organizations can prepare for COP, including through building alliances, understanding decision-making processes, and working with the media. He also addressed barriers such as language, access, and institutional bias, but expressed hope that COP30 will open more inclusive spaces, particularly through the planned People's Summit in Belém.

As Bolivia prepares for COP30, this third module has reinforced the need for informed, connected, and confident civil society representatives. By understanding the rules of global negotiations and amplifying grassroots demands, Bolivia’s climate leaders are poised to bring their territories’ realities and proposals to the heart of international decision-making. The "Camino a la COP30" training initiative will continue with the first presential module on the topic of "Alternatives to Climate Change" which will take place in July 2025.