On 9 December at 15.00, the first version of the text for the Draft Paris Outcome – the document that forms the basis of the expected result of COP21 – was released. ICLEI, in its capacity as the focal point of the Local Governments and Municipal Authorities (LGMA) Constituency, a collective of local and subnational government networks that are accredited to the UNFCCC as observers, and facilitator of the Local Government Climate Roadmap, has released an initial assessment of the text. The assessment states that if the text is adopted as is "COP21 in Paris will conclude with an inclusive climate regime that has positive implications for the recognition of local and subnational governments."

"Whether or not the climate regime will be ambitious and fair depends upon the language used with respect to the long-term goal on global climate neutrality or 100 percent renewable energy, adaptation, loss-and-damage and climate finance. Each of these components is still in brackets, indicating that least one Party objects to the current language," it continues.

The LGMA Constituency is pleased at the inclusive language used regarding local and subnational governments: "The preamble of the agreement makes reference to the ‘importance of engagements of all levels of government and various actors’ in addressing climate change. Assuming there are no further changes to this paragraph in the remaining day of negotiations, the LGMA Constituency is prepared to announce that local and subnational governments are fully recognised and engaged in the new global climate regime.” The assessment continues: “The draft agreement text also makes reference to the relevance of local and subnational levels within the adaptation and capacity building articles.”

To read the LGMA Constituency’s full assessment of the Draft Paris Outcome, visit iclei.org.