The United Nations climate conference, COP31, opens in Antalya, Türkiye, on November 9 and runs until November 20. In an unusual arrangement, Türkiye and Australia are sharing the incoming presidency in close partnership, with Australia having led preparations with Pacific island nations. The summit’s organisers have framed it around one word: implementation.
Key facts
- Dates: November 9–20, 2026 · Venue: Antalya, Türkiye
- Presidency: Türkiye and Australia in partnership
- Pre-COP: ministerial meeting in Nadi, Fiji, and a leaders’ gathering in Tuvalu, October 5–8
From promises to delivery
COP30 in Belém marked what negotiators called “a shift to implementation.” In Antalya, the question is what concrete outcomes can accelerate the Paris Agreement and keep the goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C within reach. Initiatives carried over from Belém include a “Mission to 1.5,” a Global Implementation Accelerator and a two-year work programme on climate finance.
The energy crisis looms large
This COP takes place during the most severe energy shock in years, with oil above $100 a barrel because of disruption in the Strait of Hormuz. Some governments argue the crisis strengthens the case for accelerating renewables and efficiency to reduce dependence on volatile fossil-fuel markets; others are prioritising short-term supply security, including new oil and gas investment.
Antalya will test whether an energy crisis pushes the world toward clean power — or back toward fossil fuels.
Money is the sticking point
Developing countries want clarity on how wealthier nations will scale up climate finance, especially as official development assistance fell by a record 23.1% in real terms in 2025. Expect intense debate over adaptation funding, loss and damage, and the role of multilateral development banks.
A Pacific voice
Australia’s role, backed by Pacific island states, is expected to keep sea-level rise and adaptation for vulnerable nations prominent. For low-lying countries such as Tuvalu, these talks are existential.
What to watch
- Updated national climate plans and whether they close the gap to 1.5°C.
- Progress on the climate finance work programme.
- Any coalitions announcing coal phase-out or renewables targets.
- How negotiators handle the energy-security argument.
Follow the summit in our World News section.