ASCOR framework methodology note - version 1.1

The ASCOR framework methodology note - version 1.1 outlines how countries are assessed on their management of climate change and alignment with global climate goals, including the Paris Agreement. Developed as part of the Assessing Sovereign Climate-related Opportunities and Risks (ASCOR) initiative, the framework provides investors with a transparent, indicator-based approach to evaluating sovereign exposure to climate risks and opportunities.

The methodology assesses countries across three core pillars: emissions pathways, climate policies, and climate finance using a combination of qualitative indicators and quantitative metrics derived from publicly available data. This structure enables consistent comparison of countries’ progress in areas such as emissions targets, carbon pricing, sectoral transition policies and climate-related financial commitments.

This version 1.1 update builds on the initial ASCOR framework by refining indicators and methodology based on stakeholder feedback and expanded country coverage. It supports investor decision-making in sovereign bond markets and provides an open, independent tool to assess sovereign climate performance, transition readiness and policy credibility.