A recent investigation has uncovered significant connections between authors of the IPCC's climate reports and the Saudi oil industry, particularly Saudi Aramco. Out of 223 authors in Working Group III, which focuses on emissions reduction, 20 cases of potential conflict of interest were identified, with many authors linked to Saudi institutions, raising questions about the integrity of the IPCC's conflict of interest policies.
Experts have criticized the IPCC's current conflict of interest framework as inadequate. The presence of Saudi-linked authors, including those from government-funded institutions, suggests a growing influence of the kingdom in shaping climate narratives, particularly as it shifts its approach to climate diplomacy and technology promotion.