The faces of the climate: when political figures and activists meet at COP28
The annual climate conference, known as COP (Conference of the Parties), is a crucial meeting where world leaders, politicians and activists come together to discuss issues related to climate change and find solutions to fight this global scourge. This year, COP28 will take place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from November 30 to December 12.
Among the thousands of expected participants, certain faces will stand out and attract particular attention. Here is an overview of the key figures at COP28.
Sultan Al-Jaber: a controversial actor
Sultan Al-Jaber, Minister of Industry of the United Arab Emirates, will be the President of COP28. His role is crucial because he will have the difficult task of coordinating the negotiations and ensuring that meaningful decisions are made. However, his appointment was controversial due to his close connection to the oil industry as CEO of the national company Adnoc.
Some environmental defenders believe that this proximity to the oil industry can influence its decisions and compromise the fight against climate change. However, Sultan Al-Jaber tried to dispel doubts by presenting himself as an advocate of renewable energy and saying that the reduction of fossil fuels is inevitable. He will now have to prove his determination by taking concrete measures at COP28.
Mia Mottley: the voice of the most vulnerable countries
Mia Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados, is a key figure at COP28 as a representative of states most vulnerable to the effects of climate change, such as small island states. These countries are on the front lines and are already experiencing the direct consequences of global warming, such as rising sea levels and extreme weather events.
Mia Mottley made her voice heard at COP27 by calling for compensation to polluting countries for the damage caused by their greenhouse gas emissions. She will continue to defend the interests of vulnerable countries at COP28 and advocate for urgent and ambitious action to combat climate change.
Other personalities to follow
In addition to Sultan Al-Jaber and Mia Mottley, many other political figures and activists will be an integral part of COP28. Among them, we can cite Xie Zhenhua, the Chinese climate envoy, who will play a key role in the negotiations and will have to convince China to take more ambitious measures to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. Many representatives from NGOs and environmental organizations will also be present to advocate for bolder measures and hold governments accountable for their commitments.
COP28 promises to be a crucial moment in the fight against climate change. The faces that make it up will represent hope for a more sustainable future and will testify to the urgency and importance of taking immediate action to protect our planet. Let us remain attentive to the decisions taken during this major event.