Title : Climate Negotiations Terminology Guide
Date : 20 July 2026
Understanding the language of climate negotiations is essential for effective participation in the international climate process. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) negotiations involve a wide range of technical, legal and policy terms that continue to evolve as new agreements and decisions are adopted.
Developed by the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED), this comprehensive guide serves as a practical companion for government representatives, negotiators, civil society organisations and other stakeholders participating in the UNFCCC process, including members of the Least Developed Countries (LDC) Group. It provides clear explanations of the specialised terminology, concepts and expressions commonly used throughout climate negotiations.
This second edition has been extensively updated to reflect developments since the adoption of the Paris Agreement in 2015. It introduces new terminology, emerging concepts and widely used expressions, while incorporating updated examples drawn from recent negotiations and decisions.
The LDC Group on Climate Change is pleased to make this valuable resource available to support negotiators and stakeholders in strengthening their understanding of the UNFCCC process and enhancing informed participation in international climate negotiations.
Resource developed by: International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED)