UNFCCC events are guided by the highest ethical and professional standards, and all participants are expected to behave with integrity and respect towards each other while attending or being involved with any UNFCCC event.

Code of conduct for UNFCCC events

The Code of Conduct applies to all participants at a UNFCCC event, that is, all persons attending (regardless whether in person or virtually) or involved in any capacity at a UNFCCC event, including in its set up or delivery. By attending or being involved in any capacity at a UNFCCC event, participants agree to abide by the UNFCCC Code of Conduct.

Further, the below guidelines and regulations are set in place to promote a harmonious atmosphere supportive of discussions and negotiations at intergovernmental meetings and to encourage the effective participation of observers in the process:

• Guidelines for participation
• Minor Participant Release and Waiver of Liability, Assumption of Risk and Indemnity Form
• Use of cameras and audio/video recording devices
• UN security guidelines
• UN Administrative instruction on Authority of United Nations security officer

The table is a selection of communications to observer organizations related to SB 62. Please also consult the full list of communications to observer organizations here.

The process to strengthen observer engagement in the UNFCCC, which began in 2022, identified the need for capacity building so observer participants can be better informed about, and better engaged in, the UNFCCC process. The UNFCCC values the rich discussions and resources that observer organizations bring to the table, which contribute to the legitimacy and transparency of the process.

In response to this, and recognizing the challenges posed by expansive observer participation, the secretariat organizes briefing sessions prior to each conference. These sessions provide practical guidance on logistics and highlight opportunities for in-session engagement for IGOs and NGOs registered for the respective session. The sessions aim to:

• Provide key logistical details for the conference—including venue specifics, registration, local transportation, accommodation, visas, and implications of reduced services—to assist observers in navigating SB 62 with ease.
• Familiarize participants with the Code of Conduct, reinforcing the importance of adhering to established norms and protocols.
• Inform observers about engagement opportunities available at SB 62.
• Offer insights into how to follow the negotiations, ensuring observers understand both the processes and limitations.
• Address any queries or concerns observers might have in the run-up to SB 62.

The briefing sessions took place as follows:

• Navigating the UNFCCC Process as an Observer:  
  • Tuesday, 27 May, 9:00 – 10:30 CEST
  • Wednesday, 28 May, 15:00 – 16:30 CEST
• Logistics and Code of Conduct Briefing:  
  • Thursday, 29 May, 15:00 – 16:30 CEST

For those who could not attend the briefings, the recordings, presentations, and Q&A summaries can be found linked below:

• Navigating the UNFCCC Process as an Observer:  
  • Presentation
  • Q&A Summary
  • Recording - session 1
  • Recording - session 2
• Logistics and Code of Conduct Briefing: 
  • Presentation
  • Q&A Summary
  • Recording 

Information on Side Events including the dates of the application period for the selection process is available on the home page of Side Events and Exhibits Online Registration System (SEORS).

For further information on the eligibility and selection criteria and the application process, please consult these resources:  

• Eligibility Criteria
• Selection Criteria
• Application Manual
• Frequently asked questions

Within the UNFCCC conference venue (Blue Zone), the secretariat, in close cooperation with UN Department of Safety and Security, facilitates advocacy actions to ensure that diverse perspectives are heard during the climate change conference while maintaining that the UNFCCC process remains conducive to intergovernmental dialogues.

There is a well established process for obtaining clearance from UNFCCC to organize an advocacy action. Further information on advocacy actions, including the application and clearance process, can be found in the Observers’ Guide to Advocacy Actions.

To request authorization for an advocacy action within the conference venue, please submit the application form, available here. Please submit your application by 10:00 am on the day prior to the planned action. The secretariat will communicate its decision by the evening of the same day.

If you plan to organize a demonstration outside of the Blue Zone, please get in touch with the local authorities. Please see information on how to get in touch with the local authorities here.