The conference, the first of its kind, aims to be a meeting place for countries seeking a just and orderly transition away from fossil energy. A key aim is to ensure the transition away from fossil fuels is done in a just way, avoiding adverse impacts on employment, macroeconomic stability, or energy security. It will not be governed by UN consensus rules but by majority rule, to prevent a handful of countries from sabotaging progress.
Organizers emphasize that the conference is not intended to serve as a negotiating body, replace the UNFCCC, or be part of any formal negotiation process. Participants will include governments, academics, climate activists, Indigenous leaders, trade union representatives, and other civil society voices. Norway will participate at the political level, with State Secretary Astrid Hoem from the Ministry of Climate and Environment attending on behalf of the government.
The conference occurs in a context where the words 'fossil fuels' were not mentioned in the final text agreed at COP30 in 2025, despite over 85 countries calling for a phase-out roadmap.