International Climate Coalition Netherlands: reflecting on cooperation with Public Matters ahead of COP29

The International Climate Coalition (IKC) is a partnership of civil society organizations committed to strengthening the Netherlands’ international climate policy. The coalition comprises over 20 environmental organizations, human rights groups, trade unions, and development organizations. Together, we advocate for fairer climate policies, emphasizing greater accountability from the Netherlands for its global climate impact and solidarity with vulnerable groups in low- and middle-income countries.

Since the summer of 2024, Public Matters has provided pro bono advice to the coalition on effective policy advocacy in preparation for the 29th climate summit (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, as well as navigating the new political landscape in the Netherlands. In this interview, Rosa van Driel and Barbara Rosen Jacobson from the International Climate Coalition reflect on this collaboration.

What prompted the collaboration with Public Matters?

“With the new Dutch cabinet taking office in the spring of 2024, our coalition faced a new challenge. While majorities previously supported ambitious international climate policies, this was no longer a given. It required a reassessment of the new dynamics and opportunities in the Dutch House of Representatives, particularly concerning the international aspects of climate policy.

Through one of the organizations in our coalition, we connected with Public Matters to structure our respective but aligned efforts. The collaboration began with a strategic session on our approach to the new government, which we quickly expanded into a lobbying effort aimed at achieving a climate-just outcome at the summit within just six months.”

Can you highlight a specific result of the collaboration?

“One of the most significant outcomes of this collaboration was the fresh, professional, and sharp perspective that Public Matters brought to our lobbying activities. While our network already had considerable lobbying experience, it can be challenging to think beyond the ‘bubble.’ The added value of Public Matters’ external and objective perspective proved incredibly valuable in navigating the changed political landscape. They helped us work more strategically, focus our efforts, and seize opportunities.

Public Matters’ knowledge of political developments and the parliamentary agenda had an immediate impact, improving our timing. A key highlight was our meeting with the Parliamentary Committee on Climate and Green Growth ahead of COP29. With Public Matters’ advice, we were able to propose and prepare for this meeting on time. It was the first time we were officially invited to share our vision with the committee in the run-up to the summit. The timing—just before the parliamentary debate on the summit—was perfect. We emphasized what was at stake, the importance of ambitious Dutch involvement, and the necessary steps to achieve that ambition. Public Matters also advised us to use the media to build momentum. Through our coordinated actions, coalition spokespeople were quoted in several high-profile articles about COP29.

Also after COP29, Public Matters supported us in determining next steps. Despite the summit’s disappointing outcomes, their insights helped us present our reflections clearly and effectively to policymakers. This ensured that the narrative of international climate justice remained on the agenda, even in a political climate increasingly focused on national interests.”

From left to right: Barbara Rosen Jacobson (climate advisor at the Zurich Climate Resilience Alliance and Mercy Corps) and Rosa van Driel (advocacy coordinator at CARE Netherlands).

What did the IKC appreciate most about the collaboration?

“The proactive approach of Valérie and Evi was incredibly valuable. They shared relevant parliamentary questions, documents, and updates, keeping us sharp through regular check-ins and discussions. Their advice on drafting letters, often from a different perspective than ours, was invaluable. Their assistance in politically framing our message was particularly helpful. In a political climate increasingly focused on national interests, they helped us find the right language without losing sight of our message of international climate justice.”

What is the IKC’s outlook for the future?

“Although COP29’s outcome was disappointing, this process showed us that there is still room for progress in Dutch politics. Public Matters helped us realize that every moment in the political process is valuable and presents opportunities. We will continue to work on a message that is both effective and urgent, with justice remaining a core component of climate policy.

A huge thank you to Valérie and Evi! Your strategic perspective, commitment, and flexibility have elevated our efforts to a higher level.”