€UROPROJE(C)TS: Understanding COP21

01/12/2015

Understanding COP21

As COP21 will take place from 30 November to 11 December 2015, I will write some posts to help you to better understand its stakes and the role of the European Union in tackling global warming. Let’s start with a quick presentation of COP21.

What is COP21?

COP21 stands for “21^st Conference of the Parties”. “Parties” are the 195 countries that signed the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

This year in Paris, countries meet with the aim of negotiating an international agreement to keep global warming below two degrees by 2100 through actions taken by all countries (regardless their wealth or their geographic location).

Who are the participants?

COP21 brings together 150 Heads of State or Government, delegations from each country, civil society stakeholders (unions, NGO, etc.), businesses, scientists… and citizens just like you and me.

How COP21 will run?

Coalitions of different countries having a common interest (for instance small-island States, developing countries, EU Member States, etc.) will meet regularly to better prepare negotiations and increase the chances of reaching an agreement. Civil society stakeholders and businesses will hold their own meetings.

Finally, different events such as debates, film screenings, exhibitions and booths will be open to the public at COP21 venue.

For further information