The UN climate talks in Bonn are facing a crisis of accessibility and inclusivity, with visa delays and shrinking civic space casting a shadow over the summit. As delegates from around the world gather to discuss the future of our planet, the question of who gets a seat at the table is more important than ever.
The 64th session of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB64) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is a crucial moment for global climate action. However, the talks are being marred by concerns over visa delays and a narrowing of civic space, particularly for those living in developing countries who are the most affected by climate change.
The issue of visa delays is a persistent problem, with many African delegates, Pacific islanders, and frontline community representatives being denied visas, delayed at borders, or priced out by soaring hotel costs. This exclusion is not only a bureaucratic issue but a matter of climate justice, as those who are most affected by climate change are being denied a voice in the decisions that will shape their future.
The situation is particularly dire for climate activists and grassroots organizations, who are struggling to get the necessary visas in time for the talks. Randa Khaled, a climate activist from Egypt, is one such example. Despite obtaining UNFCCC accreditation and paying €150 for a visa, her participation in the talks remains uncertain due to visa delays. This financial impact is significant for grassroots organizations and youth-led initiatives, who often have limited resources.
The issue of civic space is also a major concern. The Climate Action Network (CAN) has been allocated just five press conference slots for the entire conference, a deliberate narrowing of civic space according to Mohamed Adow, founder and director of Power Shift Africa. This reduction in access for civil society organizations and journalists is a blow to transparency and accountability, as these briefings are a vital source of independent information for the public.
The situation is further exacerbated by the growing presence of pro-oil lobbyists at these climate talks. A 2025 analysis found that one in every 25 COP30 attendees was a fossil fuel lobbyist, a 12% increase compared to the 2024 talks. This concentration of fossil fuel lobbyists at COP is a stark reminder of the power dynamics at play in global climate negotiations.
The UN climate process is being criticized for its lack of inclusivity and accessibility. The principle of independent civil society voices having a regular platform within the UN climate process is at stake. The exclusion of those most affected by climate change and the narrowing of civic space are not only a blow to transparency and accountability but a threat to the very heart of global climate governance.
As the talks continue, it is crucial to address these issues and ensure that the UN climate process is truly inclusive and accessible. The future of our planet depends on it.
