brazil Races against Time as New COP30 Draft Deal Emerges
Belo Horizonte, Brazil – A crucial new draft agreement has been released at COP30 as host nation Brazil works to secure a final decision amid nearly 18 hours of overtime negotiations. A plenary session – the final meeting of the conference – has been called, signaling the talks are nearing their conclusion, but over 50 items remain unresolved.
The stakes are high as nations grapple with commitments on fossil fuels, climate finance, trade measures, and emissions reporting, all contained within the key “Mutirão” text. Unlike many international agreements, COP decisions rely on consensus among participating countries, meaning no formal voting takes place. The pressure is mounting as the extended negotiations threaten logistical challenges; if a significant number of delegates must depart for home, the critical mass needed to finalize a deal could be lost.
the process hinges on countries voicing their support or opposition during the plenary session. Should consensus be reached, Brazil, as the presiding nation, will formally adopt the agreement. However, failure to reach consensus could lead to last-ditch informal talks or, ultimately, a breakdown in negotiations.
The UN climate conference framework requires unanimous agreement for deals to pass. Delegates will have the prospect to express their positions on the draft text, and Brazilian officials are striving to bridge remaining divides. A decision is expected today, irrespective of the outcome.
