Iran Joins Forces at Extraordinary World Meteorological Congress: Key Discussions on Climate Action

An Iranian delegation, led by the head of the Meteorological Organization, Sahar Tajbakhsh, is actively participating in the extraordinary session of the World Meteorological Congress (Cg-Ext(2025)). This significant event is taking place from October 20 to 23 in Geneva, Switzerland, focusing on global efforts to enhance early warning systems by 2027.

This session, which brings together representatives from 193 member countries, aims to accelerate the implementation of the Early Warnings for All (EW4All) initiative. The primary goal is to ensure that everyone worldwide benefits from effective early warning systems by 2027. Additionally, the congress aims to explore the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in weather forecasting while addressing the digital divide between developed and developing nations.

Key discussions during the session will include:

• Prioritization and funding of the World Meteorological Organization’s (WMO) core programs.
• Evaluation of the financial situation and budget for the biennium 2026–2027.
• Strategies to enhance international collaboration in meteorology and climatology.
• Strengthening forecasting and early warning systems, particularly in vulnerable regions.

This four-day event serves as a valuable platform for fostering international cooperation and sharing insights on global meteorological challenges. It aims to:

• Enhance the scientific, technological, and operational capabilities of the WMO.
• Facilitate financial and technical support for less-privileged countries.

Climate change impacts are a significant concern for many nations, and Iran is notably one of the most vulnerable countries facing the adverse effects of climate change, including floods and droughts. With increasing severity, climate change has led to:

• Forest and pasture fires, primarily attributed to changing weather patterns.
• Intensified and more frequent precipitation events.

According to experts, a staggering 94 percent of the world’s food production relies on soil quality. However, floods can severely degrade soil, leading to reduced agricultural productivity and the formation of deserts. Notably, climate change disrupts rainfall patterns, pollination, and even the timing of harvests, significantly impacting food security in numerous countries, especially Iran.

Mohammad-Hossein Emadi, a former permanent representative and ambassador to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), emphasized the alarming trends in Iran. He noted that in some areas, air temperatures have risen by 2 degrees Celsius, surpassing the global highest temperature increase of 1.5 degrees. This rise in temperature has profound implications for agriculture:

• Studies indicate that for each degree of temperature increase, evaporation rates rise by 23 percent, adversely affecting both agriculture and animal husbandry.
• Climate change alters plant growth patterns, leading to disturbances in the nutritional quality of crops.

Furthermore, unexpected climate-related phenomena such as droughts, floods, and landslides have further exacerbated food security challenges. As the Iranian delegation participates in the World Meteorological Congress, it highlights the urgent need for global efforts to address these pressing issues and implement effective early warning systems to safeguard vulnerable populations.

The discussions and initiatives stemming from this congress will be vital in shaping the future of meteorological practices and ensuring that all nations, especially those most at risk, are equipped to handle the challenges posed by climate change.