By Mahmud Mohammed-Nurudeen
As preparations intensify for the upcoming COP30 climate summit in Brazil, global parliamentarians are urging world leaders to deliver bold and enforceable commitments to phase out fossil fuels — the primary cause of the global climate crisis.
At a recent webinar hosted by the Women’s Earth and Climate Action Network (WECAN) as part of the Global Women’s Assembly for Climate Justice, policymakers warned that the increasing influence of pro-fossil fuel governments could stall progress at the COP30 negotiations.
They raised concerns about the disproportionate power of fossil fuel lobbyists at international climate talks, saying their presence often sidelines the voices of civil society groups, scientists, and communities most affected by climate change.
In response to these challenges, the parliamentarians promoted bold global initiatives such as the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty which calls for an end to fossil fuel expansion, a fair phase-out of existing production, and support for a just transition for workers and frontline communities.
Speakers at the event emphasized that women climate leaders and grassroots movements are rising with clarity and urgency to push for real climate solutions grounded in justice, accountability, and global cooperation.
The session featured Bolivian Senator, Cecilia Requena, Canadian Senator, Rosa Galvez, Tanzanian Member of Parliament, Nusrat Hanje, and Australian Member of the House of Representatives, Zali Steggall.
Opening the session, Senator Cecilia Requena shared Bolivia’s latest legislative efforts to protect the Amazon from fossil fuel activities. She introduced a draft law saying it is a Law for the Protection of Biodiversity and Environmental Services in the Bolivian Amazon through the Restriction of Hydrocarbon Activities.
“We understand that countries like Bolivia need to improve their living quality, income, and more,” she said. “We are also trying to have a broader scope that provides alternatives in the Amazon region and in the country.”
Chair of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, Tzeporah Berman, also addressed the gathering. She explained how fossil fuels have remained largely invisible in international climate policies for the past 30 years.
“We know oil, gas, and coal are 86% of the emissions trapped in our atmosphere today, yet the power of the fossil fuel industry and their influence has really distorted the conversation. But, now, we have a proposal for a fossil fuel-free treaty, which is a companion to the Paris Agreement. to help manage the wind-down and stop the expansion of fossil fuels–not just in one place or two places, but everywhere.”
Chair of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, Tzeporah Berman, praised the role of lawmakers driving climate action, particularly women.
She noted that the global momentum to address fossil fuels is being led by bold political voices around the world.
Canadian Senator Rosa Galvez emphasized her commitment to advocating for a safer and more just world—one that respects planetary boundaries. She added that future generations deserve the same beauty, stability, and opportunity that “we, older generations, have known.”
“We politicians must lead; we cannot be obstacles to delay. We cannot increase the struggles global warming is doing to the world. We hold the responsibility to shape a future that is sustainable, equitable, and livable.”
Member of the Australian House of Representatives, Zali Steggall, described the current moment as a critical turning point in the global fight against accelerating climate change and rising threats to communities, nations, and ecosystems.
She stressed that climate change, ecological degradation, and widening intergenerational inequality are urgent issues that demand immediate action. Despite years of warnings, Steggall noted with concern that the world is already experiencing the harsh impacts of a changing climate.
“In Australia, in the first half of 2025, there have been more than 20 declared natural disasters, from record-breaking floods, cyclones, bushfires, and droughts. This is similar in so many countries and places across the world. Too often, policies from governments are reactive, not proactive. Disaster funding flows after the fact, but little is invested in adaptation or risk reduction beforehand. Climate leadership requires political courage.”
In Tanzania, climate change is being felt across all sectors of life, particularly in agriculture, where most citizens depend on farming for their livelihood. Many struggle to grow food or carry out daily farming activities due to changing weather patterns.
Tourism—another key sector of the economy—is also being impacted.
This is whyMember of Parliament for Tanzania, Nusrat Hanje, says it is time to halt the expansion, extraction, and consumption of fossil fuel-related projects.
“This is why the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty is very important. That’s why we decided to join, and with me representing my country.”
Assembly Convener and Executive Director of WECAN, Osprey Orielle Lake, emphasized at the close of the panel that the world cannot avoid the worst impacts of the climate crisis without ending the use of fossil fuels.
She highlighted the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty as a powerful and necessary step toward achieving that goal.
“We will continue to support and move forward with women parliamentarians fighting for this Treaty. One of the things that’s really exciting is when you see parliamentarians and countries signing on to the Treaty who are fossil fuel producers. It really says that there’s an appetite for change, and that’s what we need.”
