COPs 101: What Every Journalist Should Know About Climate Diplomacy
What is a COP? What do all those acronyms mean? How did we get here? And why does it matter for you as a journalist?
This session is a crash course on the UN climate negotiations, from how COPs work and their history to how decisions are made, who’s in the room and what makes the process so complex, interesting and, at times, frustrating. We’ll break down key terms, explain the roles of different countries and negotiating groups and offer historical context to help you feel confident covering climate diplomacy, whether you’re new to it or just need a refresher. Watch recap video.
What’s at Stake at COP30?
Why is COP30 so important, and what should journalists be watching for?
This session focuses on the global and regional context surrounding COP30. We’ll look at the current state of climate progress, what issues are likely to dominate the agenda and how Brazil, the COP host, is shaping the narrative. From fossil fuel phaseout and climate finance to the future of the Amazon and the role of Indigenous peoples, we’ll highlight the topics you need to follow to be on top of the negotiations. Watch recap video.
A COP Journalist’s Toolbox
What do you need to make your COP30 coverage impactful, whether you’re in Belém or working remotely?
In the final session of the series, we’ll share practical tips and examples on how to follow the negotiations, find fresh angles, find expert sources, and bring the story to the ground so it resonates with your audience. You’ll leave with an array of useful tools, ideas, tips and leads to guide your reporting, plus lessons journalists on what works, and what doesn’t, when covering COP. Watch recap video.