Global Climate Assembly: A Call for Inclusive Action

In recent years, the world has faced an escalating climate crisis, prompting urgent discussions about how to effectively address this pressing issue. Nearly a decade has passed since the landmark Paris Agreement, where nations pledged to combat climate change. However, despite a growing consensus on the need for significant economic reforms in sectors like energy, transportation, and agriculture, the pace of necessary investments remains alarmingly slow. As governments grapple with the complexities of climate action, many proposed measures have sparked social backlash, often perceived as unjust or inequitable.

These controversies frequently manifest in divisive narratives, pitting different demographics against one another—be it the young versus the old, urban versus rural, or the Global North against the Global South. Such polarizing discussions thrive on social media, where misinformation and incendiary rhetoric can distort public perception. While the need for reform is widely acknowledged, the challenge lies in implementing these changes fairly and inclusively.

Public sentiment indicates a strong desire for action; a survey across 18 G20 countries revealed that 71 percent of respondents believe immediate action is essential to reduce carbon emissions. Yet, trust in government effectiveness is lacking, with only 39 percent confident in their government's ability to act decisively. To bridge this gap, it is crucial to involve citizens in the development and execution of climate policies. Rather than imposing decisions from above, governments should adopt a hybrid approach that combines top-down directives with bottom-up participation, allowing ordinary people to contribute to a shared vision for the future.

Successful examples of citizen engagement already exist. In France, citizens' assemblies consist of randomly selected individuals who deliberate on pressing public issues and offer policy recommendations. These assemblies not only foster consensus on contentious topics but also educate the public about complex policy matters, empowering citizens to play a direct role in decisions that impact their lives. This participatory model is particularly vital for the net-zero transition, which involves significant economic shifts that can create divisions within communities.

Unlike elected officials, assembly members can make decisions free from electoral pressures and lobbying influences. Noteworthy instances include Ireland's assemblies on marriage equality and abortion, which led to national referendums and significant legislative changes. Similarly, France's climate assembly played a pivotal role in shaping its most ambitious climate legislation to date. Brazil has also embraced participatory policymaking, developing its climate plan through a collaborative governance structure that includes various stakeholders, from government ministries to civil society representatives.

Among G20 nations, 62 percent of people support the use of citizens' assemblies for decision-making, with this figure exceeding 70 percent in countries like Brazil, India, Indonesia, Mexico, and South Africa, and surpassing 80 percent in Kenya. Over 170 citizens' assemblies have convened in more than 30 countries, all aimed at accelerating climate action while ensuring a fair and just transition for all.

Drawing inspiration from the World Social Forum, there is a pressing need for a global climate forum that unites citizens from every nation. This forum would not only chart a collective path forward but also reimagine our political landscape and encourage a global ethical assessment of our climate strategies. It presents an opportunity for humanity to come together, understand each other's hopes and fears, and collaboratively create a green transition that benefits everyone.

In 2015, France and Peru recognized that addressing the climate crisis requires more than just government action; it necessitates the wealth of ideas that civil society—including businesses, cities, and communities—can contribute. As countries prepare to announce their next climate commitments in 2025, it is vital to acknowledge the crucial role that ordinary citizens play, both individually and collectively, in tackling the climate crisis. At COP30 in November 2025 and beyond, we must ensure that every voice is heard, and that the transition is not only swift but also equitable. Without this commitment, achieving our shared goals will remain elusive. Brazil's pledge to make COP30 the 'people's COP' exemplifies the importance of inclusive participation in shaping our collective future.