At the COP29 climate summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, the presence of approximately 1,700 lobbyists from oil, coal, and natural gas companies has raised significant concerns among experts.

Researchers like Francesca Colli from Maastricht University argue that these lobbyists hinder effective climate action by influencing negotiators and decision-makers.

The overwhelming presence of fossil fuel lobbyists, compared to representatives from the most vulnerable nations, is seen as a major obstacle to meaningful progress.

Christina Toenshoff from Leiden University highlights that financial incentives, such as lucrative oil and gas deals, make it attractive for governments to listen to these lobbyists.

The host nations of recent COP meetings, including Baku, have allowed sponsorships that grant privileged access to negotiations, further complicating efforts to phase out fossil fuels.

Despite the democratic nature of lobbying, experts stress that the existential threat posed by climate change requires a transformation of the fossil fuel industry, which cannot continue in its current form if global warming is to be effectively addressed.