This historic edition, held for the first time in the heart of the Amazon, marked a major step forward in the concrete implementation of the Paris Agreement commitments. HI brought a strong conviction to the table: climate action can only be effective if it is inclusive, equitable and based on human rights.
A committed presence to make the most vulnerable voices heard
The HI delegation — Alessandra Aresu, Jennifer M'Vouama and Carol Hernandez — advocated for the inclusion of disability, the consideration of climate risks in conflict contexts and the strengthening of health systems that are resilient to climate impacts.
‘People with disabilities and communities affected by conflict remain among those most exposed to the effects of climate change,’ said Jennifer M'Vouama. ‘COP30 was a crucial opportunity to defend their rights in climate policies and financing.’
Significant progress in a decisive global context
COP30 ushered in a new phase in climate governance, with a focus on implementing the commitments identified in the Global Stocktake.
The conference's Action Agenda, structured around 30 objectives, highlighted the need for more resilient health systems, a key area for HI, which works to make health services more inclusive, accessible and adapted to climate realities.
HI's priorities
1. Advancing disability inclusion in climate policies
HI reaffirmed the need to fully recognise the Disability Caucus within the UNFCCC and to ensure the meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in all decision-making processes. Direct access to climate finance for DPOs was a key advocacy point.
2. Strengthening adaptation and disaster risk reduction
On the 10th anniversary of the Sendai Framework, the Paris Agreement and Agenda 2030, HI advocated for the integration of inclusive early warning and DRR strategies into climate policies, particularly in marginalised or conflict-affected communities.
3. Promoting inclusive and resilient health systems
The launch of the Belém Health Action Plan (BHAP) marked a key moment for the health-climate agenda. HI advocated for the dimensions of equity, accessibility and inclusion to be fully integrated into this new global roadmap.
4. Integrating conflict sensitivity into climate action
HI called for better support for fragile states, which remain among the least funded for climate adaptation despite their high exposure to risks.
‘Resilience is not just about infrastructure — it is first and foremost a human dynamic,’ emphasised Alessandra Aresu.
A side event to highlight innovative solutions
At its side event organised with the Conflict and Environment Observatory (CEOBS), HI presented pioneering work carried out in Colombia: an approach combining climate data, explosive ordnance risk analysis and proactive measures to guide demining operations and protect vulnerable communities.
Local reforestation initiatives supported by HI were also highlighted as essential levers for restoring ecosystems in post-conflict areas.
One month after COP30: maintaining momentum
Today, HI reaffirms its message: sustainable climate action begins with inclusion, equity, social cohesion and resilience.
On this International Climate Day, the organisation calls for the commitments made at COP30 to be translated into concrete actions that benefit the most vulnerable populations.
