Mauritius Kicks Off COP31 Preparations

The COP31 Preparatory Process in respect of the 31st Meeting of the Conference of Parties (COP31) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, to be held in November 2026 in Türkiye, was launched this morning by the Minister of Environment, Solid Waste Management and Climate Change, Mr Rajesh Bhagwan, in Ébène. The Junior Minister, Mrs Karen Foo-Kune-Bacha, was also present on the occasion.

With a view to preparing for the participation of Mauritius at COP 31, the Ministry will hold consultations with the public and private sectors, including members of the Climate Change Committee, the Economic Development Board, Business Mauritius, banking institutions as well as the civil society

In his keynote address, Minister Rajesh Bhagwan emphasised that the National Preparatory Process for COP31 must prioritise the implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) 3.0, climate roadmaps, and adaptation plans. He issued a strong call for a bold, more effective approach centered entirely on concrete action.

The Minister remarked that Small Island Developing States being the most vulnerable to climate change and often the poorest nations, expect a positive outcome from COP 21. He stressed that SIDS must work with the international community and secure firm commitments for climate finance.

Speaking about the National Preparatory Process, the Environment Minister stated that it is designed to mobilise the collective intelligence and tap into the creativity of stakeholders who, each in their own way, can make a difference in addressing climate change. Through this consultation process, he indicated, we will also reach out to those directly affected by the climate issue: coastal communities, planters, breeders, local government employees, youth and women.

Noting that that climate change affects every household, the Minister reaffirmed a commitment to the principle of "leaving no one behind" by inviting the general public to submit formal ideas and policy proposals. According to Mr Rajesh Bhagwan, building a strong national position is vital to clearly outline Mauritius' vision, expectations, and concrete solutions for local challenges.

As for the Junior Minister, she raised the alarm pertaining to climate change, pointing out that it is no longer just an environmental crisis—but an urgent economic, social, and public health emergency that affects every community. To build true resilience, we must summon the courage to launch a genuine ecological transition that protects our biodiversity and regenerate our environment, she said.

Mrs Karen Foo-Kune-Bacha also underpinned the need for the youth of the Republic to participate in today’s decisions, as well as uphold the duty and the responsibility to campaign for the environmental cause. She recalled that the National Youth Environment Council is being reconstituted to gather their ideas and proposals for the transformation of our environment in creating a more just and resilient society.

The Junior Minister urged everyone to join the National Preparatory Process, warning that we cannot choose tomorrow's climate if we refuse to act today.

13 August 2026

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Topics: Climate Change