Turkish civil society mobilizes ahead of COP31 climate summit

As Türkiye prepares to host the pivotal COP31 United Nations climate summit in November 2026, civil society organizations are significantly increasing their campaigns to advance more ambitious climate policies. A key coalition, the İklim Ağı (Climate Network), was established in January 2025 by 15 Turkish groups, including CAN Europe, to coordinate efforts in policy advocacy, public engagement, and local project implementation ahead of the global conference.

A 'Historic Opportunity' for National Policy

Omur Kula, General Manager of WWF-Türkiye and a member of the network, described the hosting role as a "historic opportunity" for the nation to strengthen its climate framework and transition toward a carbon-neutral future. She pointed to signals within Türkiye's National Energy Plan suggesting a coal phase-out within the next decade, emphasizing the urgent need to shift to 100% renewable energy, eliminate coal, and enhance forest protection. "Fighting climate change demands a profound socioeconomic transformation," Kula stated, underscoring the necessity for just transition policies.

Focus on Implementation and Global Stage

The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the supreme decision-making body of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. COP31, primarily to be held in Antalya with a leaders' summit in Istanbul, will gather nearly 200 countries to focus on implementing the Paris Agreement. Key agenda items will include updated national emissions targets, adaptation strategies, climate financing mechanisms, and carbon market rules. This places Türkiye at the center of critical global negotiations.

Longstanding Environmental Advocacy

WWF-Türkiye, active for nearly 50 years, represents the deep-rooted environmental advocacy within the country. The organization's work spans biodiversity conservation, sustainable agriculture, and climate action, illustrating the broad civil society foundation upon which current mobilization efforts are building. The coordinated push ahead of COP31 aims to ensure Türkiye not only hosts a successful summit but also demonstrates tangible leadership through enhanced domestic climate action.