Ethiopia to Host COP32 in Addis Ababa, Hailed as a Victory for Africa
ADDIS ABABA – In a significant decision for global climate diplomacy, the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia has won the bid to host the 32nd Conference of the Parties (COP32) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
The announcement, made in November 2025, was met with immediate praise from the African Union (AU), which labeled the achievement a reflection of “Africa’s unwavering commitment to climate action.”
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, extended formal congratulations to Ethiopia. In a press release, he highlighted the country’s “longstanding leadership in advancing sustainable development on the continent” as a key factor in the decision.
The statement specifically commended the environmental initiatives championed by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, noting that Ethiopia’s “ambitious reforestation efforts and the Green Legacy programme… continue to inspire action across Africa and beyond.”
The selection of Addis Ababa as the host city reinforces its status as a major diplomatic capital. As the headquarters of the African Union and numerous international organizations, the city is a recognized hub for multilateralism. The AU Chairperson stated that hosting COP32 there “reaffirms its vital role in fostering global cooperation and dialogue on the most pressing issues of our time.”
The AU Commission also pointed to Ethiopia’s proven track record in organizing major international summits, including the Africa Climate Summit, as evidence of the country’s institutional capacity and organizational excellence to manage an event of such global magnitude.
Looking ahead, the African Union Commission pledged its full support, stating it “looks forward to working closely with the Government of Ethiopia, the UNFCCC Secretariat, and all partners to ensure a successful, inclusive, and outcomes-driven COP32 that advances Africa’s climate priorities and strengthens global solidarity in the fight against climate change.”
The conference is expected to bring thousands of delegates, world leaders, and climate activists to Addis Ababa, placing Africa’s specific climate challenges and ambitions at the forefront of the global agenda.
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