The 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) officially commenced in Belém, Brazil, bringing together heads of state, scientists, business leaders, and environmental advocates from over 190 countries. Scheduled from November 10 to 21, 2025, the summit seeks to accelerate global cooperation on tackling climate change, rising global temperatures, and environmental degradation, marking a pivotal moment in the world’s climate action journey.

• The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) has launched the Integrity Matters Checklist, a United Nations-backed framework aimed at strengthening corporate accountability and transparency in climate action. The tool is designed to help companies align their sustainability reporting and climate commitments with UN-endorsed standards for credible net-zero targets and transition plans, reinforcing the private sector’s role in achieving the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

• The Federation of All India Farmer Associations (FAIFA) has strongly criticised the decision of the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO-FCTC) to exclude tobacco farmers and their representatives from participating in the 11th Conference of the Parties (COP11). The global meeting is scheduled to be held in Geneva from November 17 to 22, 2025.
• FAIFA termed the exclusion “illogical and discriminatory,” arguing that it undermines the principles of transparency, inclusivity, and fairness that the UN and WHO are expected to uphold. The farmers’ request to attend as observers was reportedly denied on the grounds that their interests conflicted with FCTC’s health objectives.

• In a historic milestone for global governance and gender equality, Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been appointed as the first-ever woman to lead UN Tourism, the United Nations’ specialised agency for promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism. Her appointment was confirmed during the 123rd UN Tourism Executive Council session held in Segovia, Spain, following a majority vote. She will officially assume office in January 2026 for a four-year term.

• India’s shooting prodigy Anish Bhanwala made history by winning the silver medal in the men’s 25m rapid fire pistol event at the ISSF World Championships 2025 held in Cairo, Egypt. This marks Anish’s maiden individual medal at the senior level, adding another milestone to India’s growing prominence in international shooting.