Ethiopia will host the 2027 UN Climate Change Conference (COP32) in Addis Ababa. The decision, endorsed at COP30 in Belém, Brazil, with unanimous support from the African Group, underscores Africa’s expanding role in shaping the future of international climate policy. Following this decision, Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos was appointed as COP32 President-Designate on Wednesday (November 26), immediately after Ethiopia secured the hosting rights.
As President-Designate, his primary responsibility is to spearhead and coordinate the entire preparatory process for the 2027 climate summit. This role requires close alignment with national authorities to ensure domestic ministries and agencies are synchronized on the logistical and policy tasks ahead; engagement with United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) bodies to guarantee the conference meets all international guidelines and procedural expectations; and collaboration with international partners, including governments, climate institutions, and non-state actors, to build consensus, shape priorities, and lay the groundwork for meaningful outcomes.
Since the appointment was made, FM Gedion’s initial actions have focused on establishing organizational clarity and undertaking high-level outreach. A National Steering Committee meeting was convened immediately after the announcement, in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, to outline core preparatory tasks and reaffirm the government’s commitment to an inclusive and well-coordinated planning process.
Ethiopia’s selection as the host of COP32 represents a significant development for the continent, elevating Africa’s climate agenda and reinforcing Ethiopia’s longstanding contributions to global climate action. This decision also places the nation at the forefront of international climate diplomacy. The selection also validates Ethiopia’s domestic climate record, especially the Green Legacy Initiative and the country’s heavy investment in renewable energy systems, positioning these efforts as models for sustainable development in emerging economies.
Assuming the COP Presidency grants Ethiopia substantial influence in shaping the agenda and outcomes of COP32, enabling it to help shift the global narrative from viewing Africa primarily as a victim of climate change to recognizing the continent as a source of innovative solutions. Ethiopia plans to use its hosting role to highlight tangible national achievements while advancing the broader African agenda on climate finance, adaptation, and resilience.