Background
The Climate Dialogues series of events (23 November to 4 December) will be convened by the SBSTA and SBI Chairs, in collaboration with the COP 25 Presidency and incoming COP 26 Presidency. The aim of the Climate Dialogues is to support the engagement of Parties and other stakeholders in the UNFCCC process for timely implementation of the activities mandated for 2020 and keep the delivery of mandates for COP 26 in 2021 on track, while minimizing the impact of postponing all UNFCCC sessions planned for 2020 to 2021 owing to COVID-19.
The Opening ceremony will convey the importance of advancing work under the governing and subsidiary bodies by providing authoritative guidance to Parties and other stakeholders that can facilitate climate action and ambition. The opening will also be an opportunity for Parties to share their expectations of the Climate Dialogues, and how this can contribute to a successful outcome at COP 26.
High-level participation will be featured throughout the event, alternating live and video interventions from the United Nations Deputy Secretary General, the UNFCCC Executive Secretary, the current and incoming COP Presidents, the SBSTA and SBI Chairs. Statements will be provided as well by Groups of Parties and observer constituencies. Innovative virtual participatory methods, creative reflections on the discussion throughout the event and online interaction with the public are the main pillars guiding the agenda.
Tentative agenda
1. Opening of the event and welcome remarks from Mr. Tosi Mpanu Mpanu (SBSTA Chair) and Ms. Marianne Karlsen (SBI Chair)
2. Welcome and moderation, Ms. Melinda Crane
3. High-level video interventions from: Ms. Amina J. Mohammed (United Nations Deputy Secretary-General), Ms. Carolina Schmidt (COP 25 President), Mr. Alok Sharma (incoming COP 26 President), Ms. Patricia Espinosa (UNFCCC Executive Secretary)
4. Video messages by Groups of Parties and observer constituencies
5. Live interventions and dedicated Q&A session with panelists
6. Concluding remarks
