World leaders, scientists, policymakers, private sector actors, and young people from all trajectories of climate activism converge in Baku for COP 29, which is currently underway. Watching with keen interest from afar on the shores of Lake Chad in Damaturu, Nigeria, I find myself both inspired and concerned by the discussions and developments emerging from this event, which might be connected with Donald J. Trump reelection. As a virtual delegate representing CISDL, I am writing to share my experiences from the first week, which shows the urgency and complexity of climate action in globalized world.
One of the most amazing sessions I attended was the ‘Ensuring Intergenerational Equity in Climate Finance: Youth-led Dialogue on the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance (NCQG)’. This session brought together young leaders who passionately articulated the need for equitable financial mechanisms that prioritize the voices and needs of future generations. It was refreshing to witness the determination of youth advocates who are not only demanding accountability but also envisioning a sustainable future that includes everyone.
In another segment, the ‘6th High-Level Ministerial Dialogue on Climate Finance’ presented a sobering reality. Key figures, including Richard Muyungi from Tanzania and Gabriella Blatter, shared findings from the second report on progress towards achieving the goal of $100 billion per year to address the needs of developing countries. Their presentation highlighted both advancements and significant gaps in funding, particularly in the context of meaningful mitigation actions. It was disheartening to hear that despite the ambitious pledges made, many developing nations still struggle to access the resources necessary to combat climate change effectively.
As I reflect on these sessions, I am struck by the duality of hope and anxiety that permeates the discourse at COP 29. While the urgency of the climate crisis is palpable, so too is the resilience of those advocating for change. The juxtaposition of youth-led dialogues advocating for intergenerational equity against the backdrop of slow progress in financial commitments paints a complex picture of our current climate landscape.
Moreover, the developments outside the conference walls, including the challenges faced by negotiators and the political tensions among nations, add layers of uncertainty to the negotiations. Yet, amid these concerns, the spirit of collaboration and innovation shines through. As we move forward to the week of COP 29, I remain optimistic. The voices of young leaders and the commitment shown by various stakeholders signal that actions are possible.
Post by Zanna Samaila