Overview
The Fossil Fuel Treaty Initiative is an alliance of nation-states and civil society working to secure a global just transition from coal, oil and gas. Together, the initiative is forging the path to a new, binding legal instrument to manage the international phase out of fossil fuels and build a safe and sustainable future for all. The movement is driven by a growing bloc of countries and supported by a diverse global network including thousands of health professionals, youth activists, social justice advocates, Indigenous leaders, businesses, and cities.
Mission and focus areas
The Fossil Fuel Treaty Proposal is centred around three pillars:
* Non-Proliferation: Develop the plan that would allow governments to stop building out the problem by ending the expansion of coal, oil and gas production. * A Fair Phase-Out: An equitable plan for the wind down of existing fossil fuel production, where nations with the capacity and historical responsibility for emissions transition fastest, providing support to others around the world. * Just Transition: Fast track the adoption of renewable energy and economic diversification away from fossil fuels so that no worker, community or country is left behind.
The initiative focuses on addressing the root cause of the climate crisis by providing a complementary mechanism to the Paris Agreement that specifically manages the transition away from fossil fuels while considering equity and the financial and technological support necessary for low and middle-income countries.
Structure and governance
The initiative is a global alliance consisting of national governments, cities, states and regions, civil society, Indigenous Peoples, and businesses. A growing bloc of 18 to 25+ countries are participating in discussions on the treaty proposal and setting terms and timelines for negotiations. The initiative also recognises Indigenous Peoples as rights-holders under international law.
Programs and offerings
The initiative conducts and publishes research, briefing notes, and reports to inform decision-makers about the case for a Fossil Fuel Treaty. It works to establish mechanisms for a globally just transition, including mapping financing proposals such as debt cancellation, debt resolution facilities, and reforming IMF Special Drawing Rights. It facilitates diplomatic discussions among nation-states and coordinates a global network of endorsements from over 200 cities, 3,000 scientists, 800 parliamentarians, and various health and faith institutions. The initiative is also organizing the first international conference on transitioning away from fossil fuels in Santa Marta, Colombia, in April 2026.
Mission, Values and Vision
The mission of the Fossil Fuel Treaty Initiative is to secure a global binding treaty for a just transition to a fast, fair and financed phase-out of fossil fuels.
