Michael Joseph Selected to Lead CARICOM Climate Finance and Science Negotiations at COP31

Antigua and Barbuda's Minister of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs, Michael Joseph, has been selected to lead Caribbean Community (CARICOM) negotiations on climate finance and science at the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Türkiye.

Joseph is among several Caribbean ministers chosen to spearhead the region's negotiating priorities at the international summit, scheduled for November 9 to 20, 2026, in Antalya.

His appointment places Antigua and Barbuda at the forefront of two critical areas of climate negotiations, as Caribbean countries continue pressing for greater financial support and stronger science-based policies to address the growing threats posed by climate change.

Climate finance remains a major concern for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), which face significant costs associated with adapting to rising sea levels, extreme weather events and other climate-related challenges.

The science negotiations will focus on ensuring that international climate decisions are informed by scientific evidence, particularly as countries work towards limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Joseph's selection also highlights Antigua and Barbuda's continued involvement in regional and international efforts to strengthen climate resilience and advocate for the special circumstances of vulnerable island nations.

Several other Caribbean ministers have been assigned responsibilities across the negotiating agenda.

Dominica's Cozier Frederick and Jamaica's Matthew Samuda will lead discussions on adaptation, while Samuda will also join Barbados Minister Marsha Caddle in overseeing negotiations on the conference's Cover Decision.

Caddle and Belize's Orlando Habet have been selected for climate finance negotiations, alongside Joseph's responsibilities in that area.

St. Kitts and Nevis Minister Dr. Joyelle Clarke will lead discussions on the Global Stocktake and Just Transition, which address progress towards international climate goals and the need to ensure that the shift to cleaner economies is fair and inclusive.

Caddle and Saint Lucia's Lisa Jawahir will oversee negotiations on Loss and Damage, an issue of particular importance to Caribbean countries seeking support for the impacts of climate change.

Habet and Suriname's Patrick Loys Brunings have also been selected to lead negotiations on carbon markets.

Ahead of COP31, CARICOM has called for an ambitious and balanced outcome that moves beyond commitments and delivers practical measures to address the climate crisis.

The regional grouping is seeking stronger protection of the 1.5°C temperature goal, progress on climate justice and greater recognition of the unique vulnerabilities faced by Small Island Developing States.

For Antigua and Barbuda, Joseph's negotiating responsibilities represent another opportunity to advocate for policies and financial mechanisms that can help protect coastal communities, infrastructure, water resources and other sectors exposed to climate-related risks.

With COP31 approaching, the region's attention will turn to securing agreements that translate international climate commitments into meaningful action and support for Caribbean countries.