In the policy paper’s first part, we zoom in on the UNFCCC COP29 Azeri Presidency and its priorities, shed light on the COP28 outcomes and on the unsatisfactory global climate progress to meet the energy goals set at COP28, and also on the necessity for Parties to submit ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (by February 2025).

Also, in light of the yet to be negotiated NCQG and the understanding that finance is a key enabler for climate action, thematic areas of contention are presented and contextualised among lessons learned from the negotiations on finance.  It is necessary to examine past experience to rebuild trust and restore confidence in the multilateral process as the financial goal of mobilising USD 100 bn per year for developing states has not been sustainably achieved and as it should be replaced by the new goal.

The second part of the paper focuses on diverse entry points and domestic opportunities linked to the implementation of global climate goals relevant to the context of the COP29. In terms of climate finance, three clusters are analysed:

1) international support for climate action,
2) private finance mobilisation and provision for climate action, and
3) domestic efforts by all Parties.

For all three clusters, recommendations are provided on how Czechia can not only constructively contribute to global negotiations but walk the talk at home.

Lastly, we explore areas such as energy security, UN Security Council Candidacy, business and trade, gender (in)equity, and young people’s participation which represent under-researched avenues for Czech climate action. By stressing various topical entry points of discussion and action, the aim is to present to relevant actors, who range from the usual suspects to those more under the radar, with the information they need in order to play their part in strengthening the chain of climate accountability.