Geneva Briefing Spotlights COP29 Water for Climate Action Declaration
Tanbir Hossain Emon
The COP29 Azerbaijan Presidency, in partnership with UNECE, UNEP, and WMO, held a high-level briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva to highlight progress on the COP29 Declaration on Water for Climate Action and to outline upcoming initiatives under the Baku Dialogue on Water for Climate Action. The event brought together representatives from Member States, UN agencies, international organizations, and other stakeholders committed to strengthening the connection between water and climate action.
Water, central to the climate crisis, is often underrepresented in global climate policy despite its critical role in floods, droughts, and growing water insecurity. Launched by the COP29 Presidency, the Baku Dialogue aims to create a sustained, inclusive platform for countries, UN entities, and partners to advance shared objectives.
During the briefing, the COP29 team emphasized the Declaration’s role in mainstreaming water considerations in climate policy, finance, and implementation. Several countries, including Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Indonesia, Slovenia, and the Gambia, shared experiences and voiced strong support for both the Declaration and the Baku Dialogue.
Elmar Mammadov, speaking on behalf of the COP29 Presidency, said, “Water is not only a climate risk, it is a climate opportunity — and the Baku Dialogue is our platform to act together. This briefing is a checkpoint and an invitation to sustain engagement and scale up ambition toward COP30 and beyond.”
UN agencies highlighted tools and resources to help countries address water-related climate risks. Animesh Kumar of UNDRR emphasized the importance of integrated strategies, data, infrastructure resilience, and early warning systems, while Stefan Uhlenbrook of WMO stressed the need for scientific evidence to guide climate and water actions. UNEP’s Mijke Herthogs underscored the need to transform the Declaration into action that protects water resources and ensures access for all.
The briefing also provided an opportunity for Member States that have not yet endorsed the Declaration to learn more and express interest. The COP29 Declaration on Water for Climate Action remains open for endorsement, and countries and stakeholders can join by sending a Note Verbale or formal letter to the COP29 Presidency at water@cop29.az
