The three-month training programme for COP29 volunteers, part of the preparations for the global climate conference in Baku from November 11th -22nd, has concluded.
Over 1,200 COP29 volunteers concluded their final training phase, focusing on the Blue Zone. The three-part session included a briefing, venue orientation, and tour of the conference facilities. The aim was to familiarize volunteers with the venue and detail their roles during the conference.
The COP29 Volunteer Programme, launched in May, attracted over 16,000 applicants. Following a multi-stage selection process, 3,000 volunteers were chosen. Months of intensive training have prepared the volunteers for their roles in this global event.
COP29 President Mukhtar Babayev addressed the volunteers, highlighting the local and global significance of the conference and emphasizing the crucial role of young people, including the COP29 volunteers. He expressed confidence in their ability to successfully fulfil their responsibilities.
Ms Narmin Jarchalova, Chair of the COP29 Azerbaijan OC and Chief Operating Officer, emphasized the vital role of the COP29 Volunteer Programme in the conference preparations, highlighting the extensive training provided over the past months. She stressed the volunteers’ crucial contribution to the success of COP29, describing them as dedicated sustainability ambassadors.
Mr Simon Stiell, UNFCCC Executive Secretary, joined the event online, congratulating the COP29 volunteers on their participation in this globally significant event. He thanked them for their involvement and wished them every success. A video message from UN Secretary-General António Guterres was also shown.
Mr Wasim Mir, Director of Conference Affairs at the UNFCCC, concluded the session by addressing the volunteers, praising Azerbaijan’s high level of preparation and organization for hosting the conference. He expressed confidence in the volunteers’ contribution to its successful execution.