The Strategic Role of Parliaments in Climate Diplomacy at COP31 and Turkey's Vision

During the 31st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP31), a panel titled "A Roadmap for Parliaments: How to Implement Global Climate Commitments at the National Level?" hosted by the Directorate of Communications, placed the responsibility of legislative bodies at the heart of the global climate crisis. The event emphasized that climate change is not merely an environmental issue but a multi-dimensional crisis deeply affecting the economy, food security, and energy systems.

Tuba Durgut, a Member of Parliament for Istanbul in the Grand National Assembly of Turkey, stated that the Mediterranean basin is one of the most vulnerable regions to the devastating effects of climate change. Durgut emphasized that issues such as drought and water scarcity have become matters of national security, noting that the budgetary, legislative, and oversight powers of parliaments serve as a critical lever in realizing the goals of the Paris Agreement.

Background of the Development

Although the fight against climate change entered a new phase with the 2015 Paris Agreement, the process of translating global commitments into national legislation has long been a subject of debate. COP31 has become a platform demonstrating that these commitments must be embraced not only by governments but also by parliaments, which represent the will of the people. Turkey is taking significant steps toward institutionalizing this process in line with its 2053 net-zero emission target.

Turkey's Climate Law, adopted in 2025, stands out as the cornerstone of this strategic transformation. This law ensures that not only emission reductions but also adaptation policies are placed within a legal framework. This legal infrastructure provides a foundation that strengthens the implementation of Turkey's strategy and action plans covering the 2024-2030 period.

Meanwhile, countries in the region, such as Egypt, have also adopted a similar legislative discipline. Insights shared by Egyptian MP Dr. Ahmed Fayed demonstrate that the fight against climate change is not just a technical issue but also a process of political consensus. The draft laws prepared on topics such as carbon governance and the expansion of green spaces serve as an example of how parliaments can concretize climate action.

Expert and Industry Insights

Expert opinions highlighted during the panel indicate that the fight against climate change can only succeed through a multi-stakeholder and disciplined approach. Industry representatives summarize the role of parliaments under the following points:

• Prioritizing green investments in budget allocations by legislative bodies.
• Introducing mandatory legal regulations for the measurement and reporting of carbon footprints.
• Monitoring incentive mechanisms during the transition to renewable energy through parliamentary oversight.
• Establishing a legal basis for the integration of circular economy models into industrial policies.
• Supporting environmental education and sustainability projects to increase public awareness.

Experts state that the inclusion of the concept of "carbon governance" on the parliamentary agenda will accelerate the green transformation of the private sector. The fact that parliaments act not only as law-makers but also as oversight mechanisms is considered the most important factor in preventing climate goals from remaining "on paper."

Economic and Social Implications

The economic implications of the fight against climate change are concentrated in areas such as energy efficiency and sustainable resource management. Turkey's ongoing efforts not only protect the environment but also support energy independence. Environmental initiatives launched under the auspices of First Lady Emine Erdoğan create a multiplier effect in spreading public awareness and adopting a culture of sustainable living.

As seen in the Egyptian example, the presentation of draft laws in a piecemeal manner contributes to the formation of a "common mind" among different political parties regarding climate change. This facilitates the transformation of the climate fight into a matter of "national consensus" beyond political polarization. Economically, encouraging green investments creates new employment opportunities and increases the country's global competitiveness.

Future Projections and Outlook

In the coming period, the influence of parliaments in climate diplomacy is expected to increase. Especially as 2030 targets approach, it is anticipated that parliamentary oversight will play a more active role in the processes of updating countries' Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). While risks include the possibility that global economic fluctuations may constrain green transformation budgets, sustainable financing models can minimize this risk.

Turkey's 2053 vision is not just an emission target but also a development model. The close monitoring of this process by parliaments will ensure that the green transformation progresses in balance with social welfare. In the coming years, the harmonization of climate laws with international standards and the enhancement of regional cooperation will continue to be among the priority agenda items for parliaments.