28/11/2024
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The European Climate Foundation is honoured by the appointment of its CEO, Laurence Tubiana, as Special Envoy to Europe for COP30. This recognition reflects her longstanding commitment to climate diplomacy and multilateral action, and signals a key push to deepen global engagement ahead of November’s pivotal summit in Belém, in the heart of the Amazon.
A key architect of the Paris Agreement, Tubiana is among 30 Special Envoys appointed by the Brazilian presidency to help build engagement across strategic regions and sectors ahead of COP30.
In her new role, Tubiana will focus on deepening Brazil–Europe cooperation to advance ambitious and inclusive climate action through both high-level diplomacy and broad collaboration with civil society, indigenous communities, and business leaders.
“Brazil’s leadership is vital – rooted in climate justice, biodiversity, and social inclusion. It offers a powerful bridge between North and South,” she said. “Europe must respond in kind – with ambition, credibility, and real partnership. That includes tabling a serious, updated NDC.”
The appointment of Special Envoys across 10 strategic regions and 20 key sectors highlights the COP30 Presidency’s commitment to inclusivity and grassroots engagement. Serving in a personal and voluntary capacity, the envoys will act as “sounding boards” and “true channels” for communities, ensuring fast and meaningful feedback between the Presidency and the sectors or regions they represent.
As Tubiana stated, “COP30 must go beyond diplomacy. It must deliver implementation at scale – and prove that multilateralism can still work when grounded in fairness and mutual interest.”
"I'm truly honoured to accept the Brazilian presidency’s invitation to serve as Special Envoy to Europe. COP30 – hosted in the Amazon amid global turbulence and climate urgency – must be a turning point: rekindling trust, rebuilding momentum, and reaffirming the Spirit of Paris”.
Laurence Tubiana