As COP29 takes place this year in Baku, Azerbaijan, we spoke to alumna, Nigar Huseynzade, from MBA Class of 2020/21, as she shares her insights from ‘In country’.
“I believe COP29 represents a critical opportunity for the global community to take tangible steps against climate change and its far-reaching impacts. This is no longer a future concern but an immediate challenge that calls for unified action across every level – government, business, and individual.
As an Azerbaijani, I am particularly honoured to see COP29 hosted in my hometown – Baku. This event reflects Azerbaijan’s commitment to addressing environmental challenges and contributing to a more sustainable, resilient world. It is my hope that COP29 will inspire fresh initiatives and foster partnerships that drive impactful, lasting change.”
Nigar Huseynzade is Director of international boutique consulting firm, ELAR Partners. Now based in London after graduating in 2022, Nigar works between Azerbaijan and the UK.
In preparation for COP29, a unique comparative study by SIAR Research and Consulting Group provides insights into how public awareness of climate issues evolves around COP events. This study, conducted in October 2024, involved interviews in Azerbaijan and drew comparisons with public perceptions in Scotland (COP26, 2021) and the UAE (COP28, 2023). The research assessed baseline climate awareness, public engagement with COP conferences, and perceived impacts on local communities. It also examined information dissemination and media effectiveness, offering a rich analysis of public sentiment and expectations around COP. This unique research initiative highlights how COP events can significantly influence climate consciousness on a global scale. Link to research here>