The First International Conference (24–29 April 2026) on the Transition Away from Fossil Fuels has concluded in Santa Marta, Colombia, in a vital step in global efforts to move away from coal, oil and gas. Co-convened by Colombia and the Netherlands, the five-day event brought together high-level delegations from more than 50 countries – representing the Global North and South, major fossil fuel producers, energy-importing developing nations and small island states. The conference was organised in two components: a People’s Summit and Assembly led by civil society and social movements (24-26 April), and the Official Intergovernmental Negotiation sessions (26-29 April).
SAAPE representative Reshma Shakya participated in two both components on issues of climate justice, debt justice and people-centred development under the Social Movement sector. Key outcomes included an agreement to develop voluntary national transition roadmaps and the creation of a global scientific advisory panel. Four working groups were proposed on financing, labour transition, technology cooperation and policy coordination with emphasis on just transition, human rights, climate justice, social protection, and the inclusion of workers and indigenous communities.
The conference did not produce legally binding commitments but it generated substantial political momentum for action focused on implementation. The next edition is expected to be held in Tuvalu, co-hosted by Ireland, with ongoing engagement planned towards COP31.