The meeting was overshadowed by strong opposition from countries heavily reliant on oil export revenues. They succeeded in preventing clear agreements on reducing the use of fossil fuels. As a result, an essential part of the negotiations was missing, which multiple delegations described as a serious setback.
Still, there were advances in financial support for environmental and climate goals. The conference produced new commitments to help countries better protect themselves against extreme weather and to allocate more funds for projects that strengthen nature, forests, and land rights.
Several delegations spoke of much-needed progress, although it was emphasized that these steps are far from sufficient for the challenges ahead.
The mixed outcome led to a feeling of ‘little, but something.’ Several participants viewed the result as a minimal foundation to build on, while others complained that the need for action is much greater than what was agreed upon now.
This left a clear sense that the conference failed to seize the momentum many had expected.
Notably, all of this took place in the heart of the Amazon, a region that stands worldwide as a symbol of the fight against deforestation and nature loss. Although the topic was prominently present, a major breakthrough was absent. Plans for more protection of forests and local communities were discussed but lacked clarity and strength.
The disappointment over the final outcome therefore hit particularly hard. Especially in a place where the effects of climate change are so visible, hopes were high for a clear change of course. The fact that it did not materialize fueled criticism that the conference made progress, but not the progress the world is waiting for.
At the same time, some delegates pointed out that cooperation between countries still proves possible, even in a time of increasing geopolitical tensions. This gave the meeting a certain symbolic value: proof that international agreements do not have to stall, even if the steps are smaller than many had hoped.