The Scottish Government has been elected as the new President of Regions4, reenforcing its commitment and leadership in bold climate and biodiversity action. The nomination was made during the Regions4 General Assembly, held in Rio de Janeiro from 26 to 28 June.  

The Scottish Government has been elected Regions4 President for 2024-2026 during Regions4 General Assembly, which gathered over 130 participants from various regions around the world. In his opening remarks, Mr. John Swinney, Scotland’s First Minister, reaffirmed his commitment for the two-year mandate, with a special focus on fostering climate justice across the globe. “I am honoured to assume the office of President of Regions4.

Scotland has a proud history of providing clear climate leadership, for example, in becoming the first Global North country to commit funding to address loss and damage at COP26. We will use this Presidency to continue that leadership and commitment to climate justice, working with others to drive urgent climate action, recognising the integral role that devolved, state, and regional governments have in driving global climate action”, stated Mr. Swinney. 

With a history of impactful climate action, the Scottish Government brings to Regions4 a strong leadership on biodiversity protection, loss and damage, and climate justice, ensuring that vulnerable communities are not left behind in the transition to a sustainable future. Scotland is also committed to equitable representation and better advocacy for the Global South at COP summits.

As a pioneer in climate adaptation, Scotland implements strategies to enhance the resilience of communities and ecosystems to climate impacts as outlined by Mr. Gharib Murbe, Head of International Climate Change, Scottish Government. Mr. Murbe underscored Scotland’s goal of expanding the network’s membership, particularly from regions in the Global South, and maximizing the role of subnational and devolved governments in global climate initiatives. He highlighted the Scottish Government’s dedication to sharing knowledge and expertise, including through initiatives like the Climate Justice Fund, to advance the shared priorities of Regions4 members under their leadership. 

Basque Country’s Achievements and Legacy  

On behalf of Regions4 Presidency 2020-2024, Mr. Aitor Aldasoro, Vice-Minister for Environmental Sustainability from the Basque Country, reflected on the achievements and legacy of their Presidency. He emphasized that local solutions are key in a globalized world and that cultural diversity strengthens collective efforts.  

During his remarks at Regions4 General Assembly, Mr. Aldasoro noted the Basque Country’s early membership in RegionsAdapt and their leadership in the URBANKLIMA initiative. He acknowledged Regions4’s impact, supported by financial and innovative contributions from subnational governments, particularly in biodiversity and adaptation efforts. He also highlighted the Basque Presidency’s key contributions, including knowledge sharing and additional funding to support the professionalization of the Secretariat. Mr. Aldasoro also stressed the need for better communication and stronger citizen connections, and he expressed gratitude to the Regions4 Secretariat for their efforts. 

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