Erik Solheim is a globally recognised leader in environment and development, as well as an experienced peace negotiator. He served as Norway’s Minister of Environment and International Development from 2005 to 2012, where he championed the global rainforest conservation programme and introduced landmark legislation, including the Biodiversity Act and protections for Oslo’s city forests. During his tenure, Norwegian development assistance reached 1% of GDP, the highest globally.
Previously, he led the Socialist Left Party (1987–1997) and served in the Norwegian Parliament (1989–2001). He played a central role in peace processes in Sri Lanka, Nepal, Myanmar, Sudan and Burundi.
Erik chaired the OECD Development Assistance Committee (2012–2016) and was UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN Environment (2016–2018). He is now President of the Europe-Asia Center in Brussels, International Vice President of the Belt and Road Green Development Coalition and a member of the China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development.
He advises the governments of Tamil Nadu and Gujarat in India on climate matters and contributes to green energy initiatives, also serving as an adviser to RGE Indonesia and the Global Carbon Council, Qatar. Additionally, he is involved in several global non-profit environmental organisations.
