From Kabul to Belém: A Journey of Advocacy and Impact
In November 2025, The Liaison Office (TLO) proudly carried Afghanistan’s climate voice to COP30, the United Nations Climate Change Conference held in Belém, Brazil. This was not just a trip across continents; it was a mission to ensure that the realities of Afghan communities affected by climate change were heard on the world stage.
A Critical Moment for Global Climate Action
COP30 marked ten years since the Paris Agreement and came at a time when global warming had already reached 1.5°C for a full year. The urgency for action was undeniable. The conference focused on accelerating climate finance, promoting just transitions, and protecting forests, especially in the Amazon region. While major commitments were made such as mobilizing $1.3 trillion annually for climate action and operationalizing the Loss and Damage Fund; the absence of a clear roadmap to phase out fossil fuels left many vulnerable nations concerned.
Afghanistan’s Voice at COP30
Amid these global discussions, TLO stood as the only Afghan NGO present at COP30, representing voices from the most climate-vulnerable in the world. Our goal was clear: advocate for climate justice, push for access to global climate finance, and amplify the voices of Afghan communities facing displacement and livelihood loss due to climate shocks.
Advocacy in Action
One of the most defining moments was when Shoaib Sadaat spoke at an official UNFCCC side event titled “From Pledges to Practice: Delivering Climate Finance in Vulnerable Situations.” He presented the ground realities from Afghanistan and called for global technical and financial support for Afghan communities. This was followed by participation in an expert panel, where Afghanistan’s climate vulnerabilities were highlighted to an international audience.
TLO also organized a dedicated side event at the Norway Pavilion, titled “Afghanistan’s Climate Struggles and Voices from the Ground.” With support from Norway and technical backing from ECRA, this event shared data and stories from Afghanistan, ensuring that our challenges were not overlooked.
Beyond these events, TLO engaged actively with Afghan and international media, providing live and recorded interviews to keep communities informed and raise awareness globally. We also held meetings with major climate finance institutions to advocate for restoring Afghanistan’s access to GCF, GEF, and the Adaptation Fund, emphasizing the need for inclusive financing mechanisms for fragile states.
Learning and Collaboration
COP30 was not only about advocacy; it was about learning and building partnerships. Throughout the conference, Shoaib attended daily workshops, trainings, and thematic sessions that offered insights into global climate trends, innovative adaptation strategies, and best practices from other countries. These engagements enriched TLO’s technical knowledge and strengthened networks that will support Afghanistan’s climate resilience efforts.
Impact and Recognition
Our efforts did not go unnoticed. TLO’s presence was featured on the UN OCHA website, and our advocacy opened doors for future collaborations. By amplifying Afghan voices and pushing for climate justice, we ensured that Afghanistan remains part of the global climate conversation.
Looking Ahead
COP30 was a turning point, but the journey continues. TLO is committed to advocating for flexible climate finance mechanisms, implementing localized resilience programs, and preparing for a stronger Afghan presence at COP31 in Turkey.
This success story is a testament to what persistence, collaboration, and advocacy can achieve, even for countries facing immense challenges. Afghanistan’s voice was heard at COP30, and TLO will keep working to turn global pledges into real action on the ground.
