The fossil fuel industry has long cast a shadow over international climate negotiations. From working behind the scenes to block stronger policy language on phasing out fossil fuels, to spreading climate disinformation at conference side events, high-polluting industries have never been passive observers at the UN climate conferences. Yet, as the climate crisis intensified, there is no time for further delay.

This report explores how fossil fuel influence may be embedded in the very architecture of climate diplomacy. Drawing on interviews with state negotiators and observers, the report identifies four interconnected channels through which fossil fuel interests have shaped, and continue to shape UN climate negotiations, and provides recommendations to UNFCCC, COP Presidencies, and Parties to restore trust and legitimacy in the multilateral climate process.