As countries in the Middle East and North Africa prepare to submit updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) by September 2025 ahead of COP30, Oxfam’s latest policy paper highlights the urgent need for inclusive, transparent, and rights-based climate planning. NDCs are national climate plans under the Paris Agreement and are key to limiting global warming to 1.5°C.

This paper assesses the state of NDC 3.0 preparation in the region, with a focus on Jordan and Lebanon. It finds that while some steps have been taken to involve civil society, participation remains limited and inconsistent. The report underscores a strong desire among stakeholders to make NDCs more inclusive and argues that future climate commitments must embed meaningful public participation, not treat it as optional.

Authors: This paper was written by Shared Planet, a strategy, insight, and engagement consultancy focused on social issues, the environment and natural and cultural heritage. Oxfam acknowledges the assistance of Raya Taher, Marwan Issa, Thomas Reeve, Salma Jrad and Safa’ Al Jayoussi, in its production.