Colombia and the Netherlands will jointly host the world’s first global conference on phasing out fossil fuels in April 2026, a move unveiled at COP30 as frustration grows over weak mitigation text and the absence of any reference to fossil fuels in the draft outcome.
Colombia and the Netherlands announced Friday they will co-host the first international conference focused on phasing out fossil fuels, launching a new global platform as COP30 negotiators in Belém struggle to strengthen mitigation commitments and avoid backsliding on efforts to curb planet-heating emissions.
The April 2026 meeting aims to unite governments, scientists, civil society and investors to chart a coordinated pathway for winding down coal, oil and gas production — an area long seen as a major governance gap since the UN climate process has no formal mechanism regulating fossil-fuel phaseout.
Both countries have taken notable domestic steps: Colombia has vowed to stop issuing new oil and gas exploration licences, while the Netherlands is aggressively reducing coal use and tightening industrial emissions standards. By co-hosting the conference, they hope to accelerate global cooperation at a moment when COP30 talks remain deadlocked.
The announcement comes amid mounting discontent over Brazil’s Mutirão text, which omits fossil fuels entirely and includes no new climate-finance commitments — a decision vulnerable nations say undermines progress on adaptation and resilience.
Analysts say the vacuum inside the negotiating halls is fuelling support for alternative platforms such as the 2026 conference, seen as vital for shaping an equitable and science-aligned energy transition. Observers described the initiative as “urgent”, warning that worsening climate impacts leave little room for fragmented national approaches.
Youth and civil-society groups welcomed the move but urged COP30 not to abdicate responsibility. “Another forum is useful, but political courage is needed here in Belém,” said Sohanur Rahman of YouthNet Global. “Without a clear fossil-fuel commitment at COP30, vulnerable communities will continue to bear the heaviest losses.”
With hours left in negotiations, pressure is intensifying for COP30 to deliver stronger mitigation language, credible finance pledges and a pathway for a Just Transition Away from Fossil Fuels. While the outcome remains uncertain, Friday’s announcement signals growing momentum for coordinated action beyond the UNFCCC process.
