Cop29, the long-awaited event by the international community to discuss major climate challenges, has been making waves since its opening in Baku, Azerbaijan. While expectations are high and hopes for real progress on climate are palpable, some actors are already expressing skepticism about the effectiveness of this historic meeting.
Papua New Guinea’s Minister of Foreign Affairs called Cop29 a “waste of time,” highlighting the challenges delegates will face during the negotiations. However, it is essential not to be discouraged by defeatist rhetoric and to continue to believe in the capacity of this conference to generate concrete changes.
Lola Vallejo, Director of the Climate Program at IDDRI, and Jean Jouzel, a renowned climatologist, offer informed analyses of the challenges of Cop29. Their expertise underlines the urgency of acting in the face of the climate crisis that threatens our planet. Indeed, the discussions that will take place at this event could be decisive in defining the policies and measures to be put in place to limit global warming and its disastrous consequences.
It is essential that delegates attending Cop29 mobilize and work hand in hand to reach ambitious and binding agreements. The challenges are numerous, but it is imperative to keep in mind the ultimate goal: to preserve our planet for future generations.
Ultimately, Cop29 represents a valuable opportunity for the international community to demonstrate its determination to fight climate change. Rather than seeing it as a mere “waste of time”, we should seize this unique opportunity to make our voices heard and act together for a more sustainable and resilient future.