COP 29 UNFCCC Baku, Azerbajian COP Summit Year Location

The 29th UN Climate Summit, COP29, kicked off in Baku, COP5 1999 Bonn, Germany
Azerbaijan, on November 11, 2024, with discussions set to COP6 2000 The Hague, Netherlands
focus on vital climate finance mechanisms, particularly the
new “New Collective Quantified Goal” (NCQG). The summit, COP7 2001 Marrakech, Morocco
running until November 22, aims to address urgent global COP8 2002 New Delhi, India
climate issues and secure financial commitments to assist COP9 2003 Milan, Italy
developing nations in combating the devastating effects of
climate change, caused largely by greenhouse gas emissions. COP10 2004 Buenos Aires, Argentina
COP29 has been dubbed the “Finance COP” due to its central COP11 2005 Montreal, Canada
focus on financial strategies, including a push for greater COP12 2006 Nairobi, Kenya
funding commitments and the role of the private sector in
driving climate action. COP13 2007 Bali, Indonesia
COP14 2008 Poznań, Poland
Financial Commitments and Global Cooperation
COP29’s key agenda is to secure agreements on climate COP15 2009 Copenhagen, Denmark
finance, addressing the historic failure to meet previous COP16 2010 Cancun, Mexico
funding targets. In 2009, developed countries pledged $100
COP17 2011 Durban, South Africa
billion annually for climate finance at COP15 in Copenhagen,
but these commitments have not been fully realized. This COP18 2012 Doha, Qatar
year, the focus is on achieving a substantial increase in COP19 2013 Warsaw, Poland
funding to support developing nations transitioning to clean
COP20 2014 Lima, Peru
energy and building resilience to climate impacts. However,
critics question who should contribute and how wealthy COP21 2015 Paris, France
countries can be held accountable for their promises. The COP22 2016 Marrakech, Morocco
summit also aims to expand adaptation finance to enhance
COP23 2017 Bonn, Germany
climate resilience in vulnerable countries.
COP24 2018 Katowice, Poland
The Role of Carbon Markets and Emission Targets
COP25 2019 Madrid, Spain
A critical issue for COP29 is the progress on carbon markets,
especially on whether nations can use carbon trading systems COP26 2021 Glasgow, United Kingdom
to meet their emission reduction targets under the Paris COP27 2022 Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
Agreement. Talks on this topic have stalled for years, but
COP28 2023 Dubai, United Arab Emirates
some analysts view advancements on carbon trading as
essential for accelerating the global shift from fossil fuels. COP29 2024 Baku, Azerbaijan
Another significant milestone will be the announcement of
updated national emission reduction goals, with countries like 55th International Film Festival of India
Brazil, the UK, and the UAE set to announce new targets
during the summit. The 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India
(IFFI) is set to begin in Panaji, Goa, transforming the city into a
The Road Ahead: Urgency and Global Action vibrant hub of global culture and cinema. Established in 1952,
COP29 presents a final opportunity for nations to set their IFFI has become one of Asia's leading film festivals,
emission reduction targets before the February 2025 showcasing diverse storytelling and creativity. The 2024
deadline. With climate impacts intensifying and the need for edition promises an exciting lineup of films, workshops, and a
bold action greater than ever, the summit’s outcome could focus on accessibility and inclusivity, offering a platform for
determine the future trajectory of global climate efforts. filmmakers and audiences alike to engage in cultural
Despite the challenges, COP29 is an essential step toward
exchange.
securing the international cooperation necessary to mitigate
the climate crisis. IFFI 2024: Highlights and Key Themes
The theme of IFFI 2024, “Young Filmmakers – The Future is
COP summits along with their respective locations
Now,” reflects the importance of youth in shaping the future
COP Summit Year Location of cinema. Union Minister of State for Information and
COP1 1995 Berlin, Germany Broadcasting, Dr. L. Murugan, praised the festival’s growing
international stature, likening it to renowned global festivals
COP2 1996 Geneva, Switzerland such as Cannes. He highlighted the overwhelming response
COP3 1997 Kyoto, Japan IFFI 2024 received for international film submissions,
COP4 1998 Buenos Aires, Argentina underscoring the festival’s expanding global impact.

103
A Diverse Film Lineup Cultural Exchange: Australia as the Country of Focus
IFFI 2024 boasts 16 curated segments of films, ensuring that Each year, IFFI shines a spotlight on one country to highlight
there’s something for every film lover. The program features its contributions to global cinema. In 2024, Australia takes
everything from heartwarming dramas to intense center stage, showcasing seven films across various genres,
documentaries, covering every corner of cinema. This year’s from dramas and thrillers to documentaries and comedies.
highlights include national and international premieres, These films offer insights into Australia’s cultural diversity,
giving audiences an exclusive first look at groundbreaking including stories from its Indigenous communities and
cinematic stories. modern society. This segment underscores the India-
Australia cultural partnership, reinforced by the Audio-Visual
The International Cinema Segment Co-Production Treaty signed by the two nations.
The International Cinema section brings together culturally Beyond Screenings: Workshops, Masterclasses, and
and artistically exceptional films from across the globe. This Networking Events
section maintains IFFI’s reputation for showcasing the best in
Red Carpet and Glitz of Cinema
international cinema, with films selected by esteemed
IFFI’s Red Carpet event brings the glamour of the film
experts from the film industry. The lineup includes some of industry to life, with appearances from renowned actors,
the year’s top films, offering a panoramic view of the world directors, and filmmakers. This high-profile event celebrates
through a cinematic lens. cinema in all its glory, allowing delegates and fans to
Indian Panorama experience the allure of the festival firsthand.
The Indian Panorama is a hallmark of IFFI, showcasing 25 Educational and Networking Opportunities
Feature Films and 20 Non-Feature Films chosen from In addition to screenings, IFFI offers an array of workshops,
hundreds of entries. The feature category includes five masterclasses, and networking events aimed at cultivating
mainstream films, with the opening film being Swatantrya appreciation for filmmaking. The “Creative Minds of
Veer Savarkar (Hindi), directed by Randeep Hooda. The Non- Tomorrow” segment, Film Bazaar, and Cine Mela provide a
Feature Films lineup, opening with Ghar Jaisa Kuch (Ladakhi) platform for budding talents to engage with industry experts
by Harsh Sangani, reflects contemporary Indian values and and gain valuable insights into the world of cinema.
explores themes unique to India’s cultural landscape.
Inclusivity and Accessibility at IFFI 2024
Best Debut Director of Indian Feature Film IFFI 2024 has taken significant steps toward ensuring
IFFI 2024 introduces a new award category, the Best Debut accessibility for all. Venue modifications, such as ramps,
Director of Indian Feature Film, dedicated to emerging voices handrails, tactile pathways, and braille signage, allow
in Indian cinema. The festival will honor five debut films by individuals with disabilities to participate fully. The festival’s
directors from various Indian regions, including: commitment to inclusivity is part of India’s broader mission
• Boong (Manipuri) by Lakshmipriya Devi to create barrier-free spaces for national and international
• Gharat Ganpati (Marathi) by Navjyot Bandiwadekar events, allowing everyone to enjoy the magic of cinema.
• Mikka Bannada Hakki (Kannada) by Manohara K IFFI’s Legacy: A Premier Platform for Global Cinema
• Razakar (Telugu) by Yata Satyanarayana Founded in 1952, the International Film Festival of India is
• Thanupp (Malayalam) by Ragesh Narayanan one of Asia’s most prestigious film festivals. Since 2004, Goa
These films bring fresh perspectives and unique narratives has served as its permanent home, attracting filmmakers and
from regional India to a global audience, reinforcing the cinephiles from around the globe. Organized by the Ministry
importance of diverse voices in Indian cinema. of Information and Broadcasting in collaboration with the
Entertainment Society of Goa, IFFI has gained accreditation
Celebrating Indian Cinema’s Heritage from the International Federation of Film Producers’
Centenary Tribute to Indian Cinema Legends Associations (FIAPF), cementing its status as one of the
IFFI 2024 pays tribute to four Indian cinema legends: actor world’s most respected competitive film festivals.
Following the recent merger of film media units, NFDC now
Raj Kapoor, director Tapan Sinha, Telugu icon Akkineni
manages the event, which continues to strengthen cultural
Nageswara Rao (ANR), and singer Mohammed Rafi. As part
ties and build an international appreciation for Indian and
of the centenary celebration, restored versions of their classic
global cinema.
films will be screened, showcasing the rich heritage of Indian
cinema. The National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) G20 Summit 2024 Rio Declaration
has spearheaded the restoration, preserving these cinematic
treasures for future generations. The Rio de Janeiro Declaration, released at the G20 Leaders’
Summit in Rio de Janeiro on November 18, 2024, emphasizes
Special Audio-Visual Presentation several core commitments, including the taxation of
A unique audio-visual presentation during the festival’s billionaires, energy transition, and support for global climate
opening ceremony will honor these icons, offering a glimpse initiatives like COP30 in Brasil. This historic declaration marks
into their lives and legacies. This tribute provides newer the culmination of Brazil’s presidency, led by President Luiz
audiences with an understanding of their impact on Indian Inácio Lula da Silva, who outlined the achievements and
cinema and the cultural significance of their contributions. progressive themes championed during the summit.

104
Key Outcomes of the 2024 G20 Summit Highlighted by • Inauguration Ceremony: Attended by global leaders,
President Lula including President Joe Biden, Olaf Scholz, Xi Jinping, and
At the closing of the G20 Brasil Leaders’ Summit, President Emmanuel Macron.
Lula emphasized the substantial achievements of Brazil’s • FAO Statistics: Lula cited that 733 million people are
presidency. These include: undernourished in 2024, emphasizing that political
• Creation of the G20 Social Summit: A platform dedicated decisions, rather than scarcity, perpetuate hunger and
to social issues, aimed at fostering cooperation among poverty.
member nations.
• Roadmap for Enhancing Multilateral Development Climate Action and Energy Transition
Banks (MDBs): A strategic guide to reform MDBs for Reinforcement of Climate Commitments
better global financial governance. The G20 leaders reiterated their commitments to the Paris
Agreement and the pursuit of carbon neutrality. They
• Focus on Africa and External Debt: Initiatives to address
emphasized:
challenges faced by African nations and reduce external
debt burdens. • Mobilization Against Climate Change: Urgent actions
needed to meet climate targets, with an emphasis on
• Women’s Empowerment Working Group: Establishment
of a dedicated group to advance gender equality and public and private green financing.
women’s rights. • Support for COP30: Endorsement of COP30, set to be
• Inclusion of SDG 18: A newly introduced Sustainable held in Belém, Brasil, in 2025, and ongoing negotiations
Development Goal focusing on ethnic-racial equality. at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan.
• New Quantified Collective Objective for Climate
Emphasis on Trade and Sustainable Development Financing (NCQG): A goal to enhance climate financing
The declaration outlines principles for trade and sustainable mechanisms.
development, emphasizing the importance of fair and
sustainable trade practices. It also commits to: Energy Transition Measures
• Increasing Renewable Energy Production: Pledges to The declaration stressed:
enhance renewable energy output by 2023. • Investment in Developing Countries: Support for fair and
• Coalition for Local and Regional Production of Vaccines sustainable energy transitions in the Global South.
and Medicines: A coalition to boost healthcare self- • Phasing Out Fossil Fuel Subsidies: Commitment to
sufficiency in developing regions. eliminating inefficient subsidies while promoting
• Investment in Public Policies for Water and Sanitation: renewable energy.
Promoting investments to ensure access to clean water • Clean and Sustainable Energy Initiatives: Efforts to drive
and proper sanitation. energy transitions in line with environmental
sustainability.
President Lula’s Reflections
President Lula highlighted the exhaustive efforts of Brazil’s Global Governance Reform
presidency, noting, “We have worked hard, even though we Strengthening International Institutions
know that we have only scratched the surface of the The declaration calls for comprehensive reform in global
profound challenges facing the world.” He underscored the governance, including:
significance of collaboration between the Sherpa and Finance • Modernization of the United Nations: Enhancing the
Tracks, which led to more effective outcomes. UN’s ability to address global crises.
• International Financial System Reform: Advocating for a
Transition to South Africa’s Presidency
more inclusive and resilient financial architecture.
As the G20 presidency transitioned to South African President
• Inclusive Multilateral Trading System: Promoting fair
Cyril Ramaphosa, Lula acknowledged the shared cultural,
trade policies to benefit all nations.
political, and economic ties between Africa and Latin
• Ethical Development of Artificial Intelligence: Guidelines
America. He remarked that by 2026, every G20 nation would
to ensure that AI advancements align with global ethical
have held the presidency at least once, stressing, “This is the
standards.
right time to evaluate the role we have played so far and how
we should act from now on.” Addressing Inequality and Promoting Racial Equality
Focus on Key Themes of the Declaration New Initiatives to Combat Inequality
Social Inclusion and Poverty Eradication For the first time, the G20 committed to addressing racial
The Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty was a major inequality, through:
highlight, aimed at eliminating world hunger by 2030. Key • Progressive Taxation Policies: Advocating for the
points include: taxation of billionaires to redistribute wealth and reduce
• Support from Global Leaders and Institutions: 81 inequality.
countries, 26 international organizations, 9 financial • Mobilizing Resources for Basic Sanitation: Investments
institutions, and 31 philanthropic foundations have aimed at ensuring access to clean water and proper
joined this effort. sanitation.

105