My journey to COP29 was shaped by a deep commitment to international diplomacy and advancing equitable solutions to global challenges. The conference illuminated the complexities and possibilities of climate action, offering lessons that resonate with my aspirations to serve as a foreign service officer. Beyond the sessions and discussions, COP29 challenged me to rethink how I approach climate advocacy, personally and professionally.
Here are the three key lessons I’ve taken from COP29.
One of the most profound lessons I learned at COP29 is the necessity of working with countries whose values may not fully align with ours. Climate change is a global issue that transcends borders, ideologies, and political systems. For example, the negotiations required collaboration between nations with vastly different priorities—some emphasizing fossil fuel transition timelines, others demanding immediate financial support for climate adaptation. Despite disagreements, the shared urgency of protecting our planet made dialogue possible. This lesson is particularly relevant to my future career as a diplomat. As a Foreign Service Officer, I will face situations where I must engage with nations that hold different values from those of the United States. COP29 reminded me that finding common ground is essential, especially when addressing issues like climate change that affect us all. On a personal level, this means approaching difficult conversations with empathy and a commitment to shared solutions rather than allowing ideological differences to stall progress.
The second lesson is to think on a global scale but act locally. Hearing grassroots leaders at COP29 describe hyper-local solutions to climate challenges was a transformative experience. Speakers from across the world shared what they are doing in their communities to create sustainable food options, help climate refugees, and rebuild their connection with nature. As a Rangel Fellow, this perspective underscores the importance of amplifying community-led initiatives in foreign policy. I intend to advocate for U.S. climate diplomacy that not only considers the broader global impact but also uplifts localized efforts.
Finally, throughout COP29, storytelling emerged as a powerful tool for driving climate action. Whether it was Indigenous leaders sharing ancestral knowledge or youth activists recounting the human toll of climate disasters, these narratives captivated audiences and spurred tangible commitments. Storytelling is equally vital in diplomacy, where connecting on a human level can bridge divides and inspire action. I plan to integrate this lesson into my future career by emphasizing human-centered narratives in policy discussions. Ensuring that the voices of those most affected by climate change are heard in international forums is essential to the fight for change.
Mariam Vargas is a Political Science and International Relations individualized major in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.