At the strokes of the morning sun in the quaint streets of Geneva, Switzerland on November 3rd 2025, the 6th conference of parties sprung open with delegations from across the globe in attendance to discuss the issues their countries were facing at the wake of the mercury crisis. This conference session has a lot to carry on its shoulders– resolving the dental amalgam issue, allocating funding for mercury initiatives, creating capacity building programs, addressing mercury usage in cosmetics and vinyl chloride monomers (VCMs) and so many more complex and nuanced issues. Would the conference have enough time to address all these issues? Would the parties agree on the proposed solutions? Would the phase out deadlines be met? And would the national action plans see the light of day? Only in the next few days we could tell…
Opening the Conference
Program officer, Richard Gutierrez, opened the conference with his addressal to the audience comprising of distinct delegations, non-governmental organizations, newsroom representatives, United Nation personnel and observer parties (us!). He took the stage to introduce the chairs presiding over the conference who thereafter addressed the session themselves, which included:
- State Secretary of Switzerland,
- Executive Director of UNEP
- Executive Secretary of Minamata Convention
- The President of COP6
They highlighted the whole life cycle approach that the convention takes with matters pertaining to mercury, carefully addressing every part of the process from the extraction or the source of Hg to the proper disposal of it. They underscored the importance of science in the work that they are doing and encouraged the nations to build upon their previous successes in prior COPs to make better and effective resolutions.
Science is our compass
They acknowledged the global progress made on the international decline in use of mercury in industrial processes and the slow universal phase out of mercury added products in the market while still being vary of the issues regarding the illegal trade and artisanal small0scale gold mining (ASGM) persisting. Ultimately, they hope for an actionable resolution by the end of the conference and recognizes that it is only possible through the patient collective act of humanity choosing to do better.
Opening Statements
The delegation of Mexico opened the floor with their opening statement thanking the host country, Switzerland, and congratulating the COP President on their leadership following it up by urging countries to maintain synergy amongst each other during the conference to reach a mutually beneficial goal and even between conventions like the Bessel, Rotterdam and Stockholm.
Saudi Arabia then spoke on behalf of the Asia-Pacific group highlighting the challenges developing countries with transitional economies face during the process of eliminating substances like mercury. They mentioned capacity building, technical help and timely financial assistance is crucial to not burden developing nations. They still pledged their unwavering commitment to the convention and is seeking an equitable solution for all.
The European Union followed that by proposing to include more mercury containing compounds into the illegal trade policy by using the vinyl chloride monomer manufacturing process as an example of a product that needs no involvement of mercury yet its still being used in. EU also state that they hope to see the complete phase out of dental amalgams soon by the member states.
Georgia spoke next representing the Eastern European group, where they invited 2 new parties from their region joining the Minamata Convention Family for the first time this year: Serbia and Ukraine. They then proceeded to discuss funding issues when it came to allocating resources to mercury-related issues.
And then, Sierra Leone (my favorite speaker) took the floor on behalf of the African group. They detailed how mercury poses as a serious challenge for their nation due to ASGM, illegal trade and mercury waste. They stated their full support in placing stricter import and export regulations on mercury and mercury containing goods, automated or vigilant surveillance for customs procedures for mercury and a complete ban on dental amalgams and mercury based cosmetics. They sternly called out any countries still using dental amalgams in their public health plans and urged them to submit national action plans and data supporting the complete phase out of dental amalgams in their countries and even went as far as suggesting a dedicated global program to eliminate the usage of mercury based dental amalgams. They also call for consistent and accessible financial support to fully realize their solution for a mercury-free nation and suggested establishment of a group to asses financial resources and heavily supports the 5% budget increase. Their speech addressed a lot of issues and covered ground on specific issues– like funding issues, dental amalgam and mercury containing products– and still managed to keep it focused and succinct which made a lot of impact making many other nations support their arguments in the coming interventions.
Adoption of Agenda
The President states their intent to keep the contact groups limited to either 1 or 2 based on the interests of the conference and to keep discussions focused.
The President also invited parties and groups to nominate officers for these contact groups through the secretariat and mentioned the GRULAC group having a different nomination procedure
The President also warmly welcomed the new member states of the Minamata Convention and announced a new future member, which include:
- Ethiopia
- Kenya
- Maldives
- Liberia
- St Vincent
- Serbia
- Ukraine
- Israel (Future party for the next COP)
Financial Resources and Mechanism
The President shouted out the secretariat’s efforts in hosting a session debriefing the financial resources and mechanisms which apparently had a great turnout. Documents 4 and 9 were discussed in detail and a draft decision paper was submitted by the secretariat and announced that the applications and donation opportunities for the initial 10 years on the international trust fund are open for all parties. The GEF representative stated that in one of these documents, expected funding and staffing needs were proposed in a draft decision for the international programs and assured that countries with transitional economies and changing needs are taken into account inside the financial mechanisms for the convention.
Then, Andrew Clark, the US representative at the conference and also a co-chair of GEF spoke to thank donors for SIP and asked member nations to look at the results and impact of the program on the website.
Discussion on decisions made in document 9
The session centered on strengthening financial and technical mechanisms under the Minamata Convention, particularly the role of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Specific International Programme (SIP). Delegations broadly agreed on the importance of predictable and adequate funding to support mercury phase-out initiatives, especially in developing countries. Many countries emphasized the need for enhanced technical assistance, capacity building, and technology transfer to address national gaps in expertise and infrastructure. There was also a strong call for inclusive implementation, ensuring the participation of Indigenous peoples and vulnerable communities in decision-making and monitoring efforts. Several parties discussed proposed revisions to the draft decision—particularly paragraphs 8 and 9—to refine language, improve clarity, and maintain a focus on mercury-specific priorities. Overall, the discussions reflected a shared commitment to collaboration, transparency, and sustained financial support for global mercury reduction.
The EU opened the floor and emphasized the value of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and expressed appreciation for its transparency. The delegation supported initiatives to increase funds but deferred the final decision on the GEF budget to COP7. The EU recommended changes to paragraphs 8 and 9 of the draft decision and encouraged all states capable of contributing to do so. It agreed with the general direction of the proposal but suggested language revisions to redirect the decision to COP7.
Brazil– who co-sponsored the CRP1– supported technical assistance and capacity building aimed at finding alternatives to mercury-based mechanisms. It endorsed the African Union’s call for predictable GEF funding and prioritization of mercury-related issues. The delegation highlighted Brazil’s national efforts, including updates on Minamata Initial Assessments and participation of 391 Indigenous people in mercury elimination programs. It also supported enhanced monitoring of mercury levels in human and environmental health.
Norway–who also co-sponsored the CRP1– fully supported the statements made by the EU and thanked existing donors. It urged additional contributions to the GEF mechanism to ensure continued support for mercury-related activities.
Mauritania noted that Africa has benefited from the GEF but emphasized the need for greater donor support for replenishment. The country called for assessment of mercury stocks and sources to establish baseline data and requested additional GEF guidance on identifying and managing such stocks. These points were proposed for inclusion in the CRP.
Speaking on its own behalf, Pakistan expressed appreciation to the GEF for its assistance but highlighted ongoing challenges, including insufficient funding, a lack of trained personnel, and limited technical capacity for data analysis. Pakistan called for increased funding for technology transfer and suggested establishing a framework for sharing best practices and information exchange.
South Africa reiterated the African Region’s commitment to eliminating mercury-added products. It noted that while alternatives exist, they are often unaffordable. The delegation stressed the need for funding to support public health programs and phase out mercury-based dental amalgams, including through integration into national medical insurance schemes.
The United States proposed specific language revisions to the draft decision, particularly paragraph 8, to focus more directly on mercury rather than broader climate topics. The U.S. supported refining the text for clarity and effectiveness.
Switzerland noted that proposed additions to the GEF framework were limited and targeted. The delegation emphasized that mercury-added products are already addressed under existing GEF initiatives and encouraged building upon those recommendations to add further value rather than duplicating work.
Uganda aligned with the African Union’s position, calling for capacity building, technical assistance, and GEF support in identifying mercury sources and stocks. It also encouraged the GEF to report on mercury levels and national efforts toward implementation.
Ecuador acknowledged the need for both technical and financial support to monitor and control mercury use. The delegation urged all parties to increase contributions to GEF in support of health and safety measures related to the Convention.
Indonesia supported calls for reliable and predictable funding. It emphasized inclusive governance that involves Indigenous and vulnerable communities in mercury phase-out efforts. Transparent reporting was highlighted as essential to the effective implementation of the Convention.
Iran stated that certain issues submitted by them had not been considered by the GEF . The intervention indicated concerns about the inclusion or exclusion of specific elements.
Canada expressed gratitude for improvements made through CRP1. It highlighted the importance of monitoring both human and environmental mercury levels and broadening participation of Indigenous peoples. Canada questioned changes to paragraph 6, emphasizing respect for Indigenous rights and recommending that the original ordering of references be retained.
The Maldives supported the draft decision and agreed with the proposed extension of the Specific International Programme (SIP). It also called for simplifying access to the financial system for developing states.
Colombia advocated for clearer guidelines for financial systems within the draft decision and requested that GEF update data on mercury stocks. It supported extending the SIP for seven years to provide long-term planning certainty. The delegation suggested deleting the word “potential” in paragraph 8 and ensuring that resource analyses reflect the needs of developing countries.
Sri Lanka reported progress in developing initiatives to phase out mercury in consumer market products, reaffirming its commitment to the goals of the Convention.
Amendments to Annex A (Dental Amalgam)
The discussion focused on the proposed phase-out of dental amalgam and its inclusion under Annex A of the Minamata Convention. Delegations shared national experiences, policy measures, and perspectives on the timeline for phasing out mercury-based dental products. Most countries expressed support for the 2030 global phase-out date, emphasizing the environmental and health risks associated with mercury use in dentistry. Many developing countries highlighted the challenges of limited infrastructure, lack of affordable alternatives, and the need for financial and technical assistance. Others underlined the importance of flexibility for national health systems and the availability of proven, safe, and cost-effective substitutes. A few delegations requested the establishment of a contact group to refine the draft text, address scientific evidence, and ensure an equitable transition toward mercury-free dental care.
The United States opened the discussion and noted that thimerosal-containing vaccines were left out of the draft decision and questioned the perceived double standard between vaccines and dental fillings. The U.S. stated that mercury has been removed from all vaccines domestically and called on other nations to do the same.
The European union delegation explained that EU law prohibits the use and trade of dental amalgam, restricting import, manufacture, and use unless deemed medically necessary by a licensed healthcare provider. The EU reaffirmed its strong support for the global ban on mercury-based dental products.\
Thailand reaffirmed commitment to maintaining the first-line measures outlined in Annex A, Part II. The delegation described this as a pragmatic approach that balances environmental protection with access to essential medical care, particularly within social security and health insurance frameworks.
Then Sierra Leone took the floor again, and emphasized adherence to the original plan setting a 2030 phase-out date. The country urged all parties still using dental amalgam to submit national phase-out plans every four years and encouraged contact groups to monitor progress. Sierra Leone underscored that non-mercury alternatives are available and affordable, and argued that amalgam use imposes greater long-term environmental costs.
The UK then recognized that some clinical cases may still require medical-grade dental amalgam, such as for patients allergic to alternatives. The UK reaffirmed its commitment to healthcare quality and supported the 2030 global phase-out date.
Norway called for the formation of a contact group to further discuss and refine the provisions related to dental amalgam.
Then the Philippines reported that it fully phased out dental amalgam in 2023 and removed it from its list of restricted items. The country affirmed its inclusion in both Part I and Part II of Annex A.
Uganda highlighted the heavy burden developing countries face in safely disposing of mercury waste. Uganda supported the 2030 phase-out date and requested additional resources and guidance to ensure effective national implementation.
Switzerland then addressed the committee and praised the availability of safe and effective alternatives to mercury-based dental products. While recognizing that some countries may need more time, Switzerland underlined the importance of setting a clear phase-out date to guide global action.
Iran expressed skepticism regarding the reliability of current alternatives, arguing that composites lack sufficient long-term scientific evidence. However, Iran expressed willingness to participate in a contact group to continue discussions.
Zambia aligned fully with the African Region’s proposal. Zambia has already eliminated dental amalgam from public health programs and national insurance and continues developing initiatives for mercury-free dentistry.
Australia then acknowledged the flexibility raised by the UK and the U.S., while also supporting Sierra Leone’s call for a strict 2030 phase-out date. The delegation encouraged global initiatives to phase down dental amalgam responsibly.
Bangladesh supported the African Union’s proposal to add dental amalgam to the prohibition list and requested a clear phase-down plan. Despite being a developing country, Bangladesh has already initiated phase-out efforts and incorporated this transition into its educational curriculum.
Brazil supported the 2030 phase-out date and reported significant reductions in the use of dental amalgam. However, Brazil cautioned that an abrupt ban before widespread availability of safe alternatives would be socially and economically impractical.
Mexico outlined a gradual replacement strategy for dental amalgam within its federal system. Mexico has introduced programs to promote the phase-down process in alignment with the Convention’s objectives.
India supported Part II of Annex A and emphasized that domestic conditions should be considered when setting phase-down plans. India noted the high cost and limited availability of quality alternatives, warning that a full phase-out should await broader access to affordable substitutes.
Jordan confirmed an ongoing national plan to phase down dental amalgam before 2030, developed in cooperation with international partners. The delegation expressed gratitude for continued technical support.
Singapore then acknowledged the environmental impacts of dental amalgam but stressed that health and financial constraints must also be considered. The delegation advocated for a balanced and results-driven approach to phase-down policies.
Kenya epressed full support for the African Group’s proposal and commitment to regional cooperation on dental amalgam elimination.
Maldives reported that phase-down initiatives have been underway since 2013 and are widely accepted by the public. As an island nation dependent on marine resources, the Maldives strongly supported the 2030 phase-out.
Burkina Faso aligned completely with the African Group’s proposal to eliminate mercury-based dental amalgam and didn’t say much on its own like other minor African countries.
Suriname announced plans to ban mercury-added products, including dental amalgam, by early 2026. Suriname expressed readiness to partner internationally and requested funding to build the infrastructure needed for full implementation.
Ghana supported Sierra Leone’s proposal and called for the immediate rollout of national phase-down plans.
Tanzania aligned with the African Region’s position on the dental amalgam proposal, supporting the 2030 phase-out timeline.
Uruguay linked oral health to environmental and human well-being. Uruguay has already removed dental amalgam from national health programs and education curricula and expressed willingness to share its experience, offering to chair a committee against mercury use in dentistry.
Peru reaffirmed its commitment to the Minamata Convention and reported progress toward gradual phase-out. Peru plans to introduce legal standards restricting mercury amalgam and integrate these measures into public insurance systems.
Panama supported the African Group’s proposed amendment and confirmed that dental amalgam use has been prohibited nationwide since January.
Argentina reiterated its commitment to the Convention and endorsed the 2030 phase-out date. Argentina assured that all dental amalgam use will cease by 2030, ensuring a sustainable and inclusive transition.
Burundi reaffirmed its agreement with the CRP and the African group’s proposal and said nothing of note on its own– a typical pattern I observed in the African group countries.
Finally, Saudi Arabia recognized the ongoing national phase-down plan and noted that some alternatives remain unreliable. Saudi Arabia supported the creation of a contact group to further discuss the matter.
Ammendments to (iii) (Vinyl Chloride Monomer Production)
The discussion addressed the continued use of mercury in the production of Vinyl Chloride Monomer (VCM), a key component in manufacturing polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Delegations acknowledged the environmental and health impacts associated with mercury-based catalysts and stressed the importance of transitioning to mercury-free production technologies. Many countries expressed support for establishing a contact group to further discuss technical, economic, and policy aspects of the phase-out. There was broad consensus that mercury-free alternatives—particularly those based on ethylene or acetylene—are both feasible and increasingly cost-effective. Several states highlighted national experiences with mercury-free catalysts, while others emphasized the need for financial and technical assistance to ensure an equitable transition. Overall, the debate reflected strong global momentum toward eliminating mercury in VCM production while maintaining industrial competitiveness and sustainable development.
The EU identified Vinyl Chloride Monomer (VCM) as one of the few remaining widespread products that still rely on mercury-based production processes. It emphasized the need to eliminate such practices and called for the establishment of a contact group to advance discussions on phasing out mercury use in VCM manufacturing.
China reported ongoing efforts to reduce mercury use in VCM production, including the development of low-mercury and mercury-free catalysts. China highlighted the importance of ensuring economic viability and emphasized the need for continued policy and scientific support to implement a comprehensive life-cycle approach. The country expressed willingness to participate in a contact group to further address these challenges.
Norway stated that all VCM production in Norway already utilizes ethylene-based methods without mercury. Norway expressed full support for global efforts to phase out mercury-dependent production techniques.
Philippines explained that the country does not manufacture VCM domestically. Two companies import VCM for the production of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), using ethylene-based processes. The Philippines therefore supported the proposed phase-out of mercury use in VCM production.
Sierra Leone continues to cement their stance as the leader of the African group by noting that mercury-free catalytic processes for producing PVC are available and technically viable. Given the widespread use of VCM products across Africa, Sierra Leone stated it is in the region’s best interest to ensure mercury-free production. The delegation supported the Conference Room Paper (CRP) and called for the development of economically and technically feasible alternatives.
USA expressed strong support for the CRP and confirmed that all VCM production in the U.S. already relies on ethylene- and acetylene-based methods. The U.S. offered to co-sponsor the proposal and stated hope that the phase-out of mercury-based processes could occur ahead of the agreed timeline. The delegation also endorsed the formation of a contact group.
Then United Kingdom thanked the authors of the CRP and expressed full support for the proposed phase-out of mercury in VCM production.
Thailand then welcomed the availability of mercury-free alternatives and recognized that these technologies are increasingly accessible. Thailand expressed full support for the global phase-out initiative.
Switzerland highlighted that industrial-scale deployment of mercury-free catalysts is both possible and practical. Switzerland supported the EU’s proposal and encouraged widespread adoption of these cleaner technologies.
Australia also commended the CRP for its clarity and comprehensiveness, particularly its inclusion of economic and scientific considerations regarding alternative production methods. Australia expressed support for the phase-out and ongoing international cooperation.
Ugandan delegation supported the African Region’s position calling for the transition to mercury-free VCM production. Despite being a growing economy, Uganda reported positive outcomes from adopting alternatives, noting improvements in water quality. The delegation advocated for completing the phase-out within the next five years.
Iran then thanked the CRP authors and clarified that Iran’s petrochemical industries already use copper-based catalysts rather than mercury-based ones. Iran expressed overall support for the initiative.
India finally closed the discussion by acknowledging the environmental risks of mercury in VCM production and thanked the CRP proponents. India reported preliminary analyses showing the feasibility of mercury-free acetylene-based processes. The country supported the phase-out but emphasized the need for further discussions in a contact group to refine implementation strategies.
Amendments to (ii) (Mercury in cosmetic products)
The discussion focused on the continued production, trade, and use of mercury-added cosmetics, particularly skin-lightening products. Delegations expressed deep concern over the public health risks and environmental damage caused by these products, emphasizing that their persistence is largely due to illegal trade, lack of enforcement, and limited public awareness. There was broad agreement on the need to strengthen national legislation, enhance monitoring and border control, and promote international cooperation to ensure full compliance with the Minamata Convention’s provisions. Many countries supported establishing a contact group to refine the proposed amendments and coordinate capacity-building measures. Several delegations also highlighted the importance of education, awareness campaigns, and industry collaboration to shift consumer behavior and support the elimination of mercury-based cosmetics globally.
Gabon fully aligned itself with Sierra Leone’s proposal and reiterated its strong commitment to eliminating mercury-added skin-lightening products. Gabon co-sponsored the related Conference Room Paper (CRP) and emphasized that phasing out such products is an urgent health and environmental priority.
Sierra Leon thanked Gabon for submitting the CRP and reinforced its call to restrict the trade, sale, and import of mercury-containing cosmetics. Sierra Leone encouraged collaboration among parties to promote awareness, integrate these principles into industrial regulation and education, and called on all states to support adoption of the proposal.
Philippines acknowledged that eliminating mercury-added cosmetics is challenging without collective international action. The delegation emphasized the importance of tackling illegal cross-border trade through stronger cooperation and enforcement mechanisms.
Thailand then reported that the sale of mercury-added cosmetics is strictly prohibited under national law. Thailand expressed strong support for the proposal and reiterated its readiness to continue working toward the complete elimination of mercury in cosmetics.
Uganda then aligned with the African Region’s position, condemning the continued use of mercury-containing cosmetics despite the availability of safe alternatives. Uganda called for stronger enforcement and awareness measures.
Japan expressed support for the phase-out of mercury in cosmetics but proposed amendments to paragraphs 2 and 4 of the draft text, noting that additional provisions for financial and technical resources are needed to assist countries requiring support for implementation.
The EU called upon all parties to enforce strict measures prohibiting mercury in cosmetic manufacturing and trade. The EU supported forming a contact group to discuss detailed implementation and compliance mechanisms.
Antigua and Barbuda strongly advocated for an integrated and comprehensive approach, emphasizing collaboration among implementing partners to effectively eliminate mercury-based skin-lightening products.
Mexico expressed support for the African Group’s proposal and confirmed that mercury use in skin, hair, and body products is illegal under Mexican law. The delegation reaffirmed its commitment to strict enforcement of these prohibitions.
The United States appreciated the partnership behind the CRP submitted by Gabon and acknowledged the urgency of addressing mercury in cosmetics. The U.S. raised concerns, however, about language in the CRP that tasks the Secretariat with reviewing national legislation and about references to establishing a new international organization, noting that such actions may go beyond the Convention’s scope.
Zambia reported that products containing mercury continue to enter the country through illegal trade channels, posing a major challenge. Zambia urged both national and international cooperation to monitor and prevent smuggling and supported stronger enforcement and awareness initiatives.
Norway shared the African Group’s concerns and expressed appreciation for the CRP. Norway supported establishing a contact group to refine the proposal and ensure coherent global action.
Republic of Korea then stated that under its national Cosmetics Act, mercury is a banned ingredient, and the import or sale of mercury-containing cosmetics is prohibited. Korea called for the global phase-out of such products.
Dominican Republic also called for the elimination of online platforms that sell mercury-added cosmetics. The delegation noted that domestic legislation already prohibits these products and supports stronger international enforcement.
Bangladesh declared full support for the ban. National law prohibits the manufacture, import, sale, and promotion of mercury-containing cosmetics, reflecting Bangladesh’s firm stance against their use.
Pakistan welcomed the CRP on cosmetics and emphasized the need for public health campaigns and global partnerships to combat social media marketing of mercury-added beauty products.
India then penultimately expressed appreciation for the proposed measures and the Secretariat’s report. India highlighted the need for information-sharing on illegal trade, capacity building, and public education. The delegation noted that federal law already prohibits products exceeding certain mercury levels and described the Gabon CRP as a welcome step forward.
And finally, Sri Lanka reported strong national progress, including the development of technical capacity to test products for mercury, widespread media awareness campaigns, and customs training workshops to intercept illicit imports. Sri Lanka reaffirmed full support for the Minamata Convention and the elimination of mercury in cosmetics.
The End of the Beginning
So comes the end of the first day of the conference of parties 6 for the Minamata convention on mercury, ending after a long long day of discussing amendments and addressing global mercury issues. The Swiss government also generously invited all the delegations and observers to a evening full of diplomatic banter and Swiss delicacies at the the conference’s reception– where the food might’ve tasted very different from what it looked like, but still very scrumptious indeed!
Thank you switzerland for your generous hospitality and the best birthday gift ever!
Signing off,
Charan
