Turkiye Withdraws from Hosting UN Biodiversity Meeting in 2024
Turkiye has announced that it will not be able to host the upcoming United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) meeting in 2024. The decision comes in the wake of a series of devastating earthquakes that struck the country earlier this year. The CBD, the UN body responsible for overseeing the talks, confirmed Turkiye’s withdrawal due to a force majeure situation created by the earthquakes.
The COP16 meeting, as it is known, aims to build upon the historic agreement reached at last year’s talks. This agreement, often referred to as “a peace pact with nature,” is similar in significance to the landmark Paris climate deal. It was reached by over 190 countries participating in the UN biodiversity process and focuses on saving Earth’s lands, oceans, and species from pollution, degradation, and the climate crisis.
In a letter published on its website, the CBD expressed regret over Turkiye’s decision to step down from hosting the talks. The COP16 meeting was originally scheduled to take place from October 21 to November 1 next year. However, with Turkiye’s withdrawal, the CBD will now seek offers from other countries to take on the role of host.
Last year’s agreement was the result of four years of challenging negotiations, further complicated by the global pandemic. The deal includes commitments to protect 30 percent of the planet as a designated conservation area by 2030. Ultimately, China, as the host country, presided over the final talks in Canada.
While Turkiye’s withdrawal is unfortunate, it is understandable given the circumstances. The country has been grappling with the aftermath of several destructive earthquakes that occurred in February 2023. These natural disasters have undoubtedly taken a toll on Turkiye’s infrastructure and resources, making it difficult for them to fulfill their obligations as the host country for such a significant event.
The CBD’s decision to solicit offers from other countries to host the COP16 meeting demonstrates the organization’s commitment to ensuring the continuity of the talks. It is crucial to maintain momentum in addressing the pressing issues of biodiversity loss and environmental degradation. The COP16 meeting presents an opportunity for countries to come together and reaffirm their commitment to protecting the planet and its ecosystems.
The withdrawal of Turkiye as the host country should not overshadow the importance of the COP16 meeting itself. This gathering of nations provides a platform for policymakers, scientists, and environmentalists to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and develop strategies for conserving biodiversity and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
As the CBD seeks a new host for the COP16 meeting, it is essential to consider a country that can effectively facilitate meaningful discussions and drive progress towards achieving the goals set out in last year’s agreement. The host country should have a strong commitment to environmental conservation and possess the necessary infrastructure and resources to accommodate such a significant event.
While Turkiye’s withdrawal may delay the scheduling of the COP16 meeting, it should not deter countries from their commitment to biodiversity conservation. The urgency of addressing these issues remains unchanged, and it is crucial that efforts to protect our planet continue unabated.
In conclusion, Turkiye’s decision to withdraw from hosting the UN biodiversity meeting in 2024 due to the recent earthquakes is understandable given the circumstances. The CBD will now seek offers from other countries to take on the role of host. Despite this setback, it is important to remember the significance of the COP16 meeting and the need for continued global cooperation in protecting biodiversity and addressing environmental challenges.