The dynamics of global action on climate are being redefined, as the recent issue with India’s bid to host COP33 was made official through a sudden policy shift. Although there has been no formal communication by Indonesia on why India withdrew, previously, India showed interest in hosting.
As announced by Prime Minister Modi in 2023, the withdrawal raises significant questions relating to the future of venue selection, as global climate negotiations are heavily dependent upon how prepared the hosting nations are to assist the negotiations. The shifts in India also raise concerns regarding logistical or strategic priorities of other countries. Therefore, India’s latest decision should be viewed as a realignment rather than a disengagement.
Strategic considerations and domestic priorities influence India’s decision
India has made extensive preparations for the summit, including the establishment of earlier planning logistics within local governments. Recent reviews of commitments have resulted in a shift from previous support to now withdrawing support from the 2028 commitments; however, the Ministry of the Environment has yet to make an official proposal for withdrawal from the UN Climate Convention (UNFCCC).
Communications with UNFCCC confirm such communication and indicate that the withdrawal was a calculated administrative decision. Moreover, India continues to pursue climate commitments through policy measures from its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). The movement will reflect domestic priority over international obligation; as such is the current status of all Indian climate activity.
India COP33 Decision Shapes Climate Diplomacy and Positioning
At this time, there is no host for COP33 after the withdrawal of India as a contender for hosting the summit. The UN climate summit has historically rotated around the world based on regional groupings; therefore, India, part of the Asia-Pacific region, was aligned with the current rotational framework. When India withdrew, it opened up possibilities to other candidates to build a proposal to host COP33. South Korea has expressed interest in being a candidate to host COP33 but has not submitted a formal national proposal, making the selection process for COP33 potentially open for additional competition. Therefore, COP33 is currently being defined and will remain uncertain as planning for COP33 continues in the near future.
Implications for climate diplomacy and India’s global positioning
Nevertheless, India’s commitment to global climate change negotiations remains very much alive. India continues to play an active role in global climate negotiations; for example, India was the host nation of a climate conference held in 2002. Also, India has made recent commitments regarding the responsible use of natural resources (e.g., non-fossil fuel-based energy). Additionally, India plans to continue reducing its emissions intensity.
Thus, its decision not to host an upcoming climate conference is not a reflection of a reduced level of commitment to addressing climate change globally. It is a reflection of how India will manage its national priorities by strategically disbursing its resources. As a result, India is able to be a leader among nations, while also addressing immediate national priorities.
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