COP15 High-Level Segment - December 17, 2009

On December 17, 2009, during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15) in Copenhagen, Denmark, Yvo de Boer, the then Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), convened a high-level segment crucial to the ongoing negotiations. This conference was a pivotal moment in global climate negotiations, marking an intense period of discussions aimed at establishing a successor to the Kyoto Protocol.

Background

COP15 was held amidst mounting global pressure to formulate a comprehensive international agreement to combat climate change. The Kyoto Protocol, which was due to expire in 2012, necessitated a new commitment framework, bringing urgency to the conference’s negotiations.

Key Events on December 17

• High-Level Meetings: The day featured intense negotiations among world leaders and diplomats. Key figures such as U.S. President Barack Obama, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, and other global leaders were present to directly engage in discussions.
• Draft Negotiations: Draft texts were circulated as nations attempted to reconcile differing priorities. Major points of contention included emission reduction targets, financing for developing countries, and the legal binding nature of any agreement.
• Developing vs. Developed Countries: A principal divide persisted between developed nations, which were urged to commit to significant carbon cuts, and developing nations, seeking financial and technical support to address climate impacts.

Broader Context

Yvo de Boer played a crucial facilitative role during these discussions, striving to bridge gaps between conflicting national interests. The conference was marked by a challenging negotiation climate, reflecting the complexity of achieving consensus on global governance issues related to climate change.

Aftermath

The COP15 proceedings on December 17 set the stage for the controversial Copenhagen Accord, which was later noted primarily for its political rather than legally binding outcomes. Although it did not result in a comprehensive successor to the Kyoto Protocol, it included pledges to limit global temperature rise and commitments to provide $100 billion annually by 2020 to assist developing countries.

Significance

Though the outcomes of COP15 were seen as disappointing by many, it represented a critical juncture in climate diplomacy. The events of December 17, 2009, underscore the difficulties inherent in achieving international consensus on climate action, a theme that continues to inform global climate policies.