COP27, the 27th annual United Nations conference on climate change, took place in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. Many political figures participated in discussions about the necessary actions to protect our planet moving forward.
This is the third time Africa has hosted the infamous event. Given the recent climate tragedies within the country, such as extreme weather leading to mass famine, it was a critical moment when vulnerable countries stepped onto the global stage. This brings attention to the growing climate disaster. Rwandan Premier Paul Kagawe and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi were in attendance.
Political Power: Who Was There?
Western powers were also present, including American President Joe Biden, and Scotland Prime Minister Nicola Sturgeon. The UK representatives were a less reliable appearance, as recently elected Prime Minister Rishi Sunak initially declared his absence from the conference. As well as the new King Charles III’s failure to attend, it seemed the UK would be absent until a sudden U-Turn brought Sunak to Egypt. A favorable choice given recent climate activists causing chaos in the UK.
Young People Finally In the Conversation.
Young people also made their collective debut, as The Children and Youth Pavilion attended Sharm el-Sheikh with the hope of implementing ideas of the current youth into plans to protect their future through climate change. People see this as a big step forward for young people making a difference. This recognition of the importance of young people in climate change is a breakthrough in the advancement of climate laws. YOUNGO (The Official Youth Constituency of the UNFCCC) officially represented themselves, marking a significant leap forward.
“The world still needs a giant leap on climate ambition.”
UN Secretary – General Antònio Guterres, United Nations Website
Financial Outcome
Loss and Damages at COP27 mark a historic milestone as a plan is made to fund climate change damages in vulnerable countries. Wealthier countries, including the EU, Germany, and Scotland, have pledged to contribute to this funding. However, other countries, such as China, have failed to commit to participating in the funding.
Talks have begun surrounding where all this funding should come from, and whether it should be solely down to the wealthier countries to compensate those that have suffered considerably in the climate crisis. Other financial investments could include a raise in tax on fossil fuel companies, or potentially accessing other existing funds. Rising energy bills could challenge financially struggling countries and compound existing COVID-19 debt in the current global crisis.
