COP28: Activists Demand True Inclusivity, Not Mere Presence

Climate activist Lisa NoBaya highlights the importance of genuine inclusivity at COP28, advocating for diverse voices to actively participate and shape the summit's outcomes. Despite promises of inclusivity, women, young people, and Indigenous voices feel limited in their ability to contribute substantially to the decisive meetings.

At the United Nations climate summit (COP28) in Dubai, climate activist Lisa NoBaya raised a crucial question: does inclusivity mean diverse voices are simply present or actively participating in shaping the outcomes of the talks? Despite promises of inclusivity, many women, young people, and Indigenous voices feel relegated to mere attendance, with limited opportunities to contribute substantially to the decisive meetings.

Lopsided Attendance Hinders Meaningful Inclusion

Even attendance at the talks is lopsided, making meaningful inclusion even more difficult. Lisa NoBaya, a 28-year-old climate activist, expressed her frustration, stating, "If by inclusivity they mean that the women, youth, and Indigenous community are just to be present here and not speak, then this is not inclusive, but ridiculous."

COP28 President's Promise and Criticism

COP28 President Sultan al-Jaber promised to ensure that this year's climate summit would be the most inclusive and action-oriented yet, bringing in perspectives from all sides of the debate. However, his inclusion of fossil fuel companies drew fierce criticism from environmentalists.

Women's Representation in Leadership and Negotiations

Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim, a negotiator from Chad, emphasized the importance of women's leadership roles. At last year's summit, two women played a pivotal role in securing a fund for loss and damage from climate disasters for developing nations. Despite some progress, women remain underrepresented in negotiations, with only 38% of delegates being women, according to the U.N. Framework Climate Change Convention data.

Inclusivity in Outside Spaces but Not in Decision-Making

Jeniffer Corpuz, an Igorot leader from the Philippines, observed that inclusivity is visible in outside spaces such as demonstrations and side events, but not in the closed-door negotiation meetings where real decision-making occurs. She attributed this to historical circumstances that have limited women's power.

Women's Crucial Role and the Need for Effective Inclusion

Sara Omi, a delegate representing the Emberá People of Panama, highlighted the crucial role of women in resisting climate change, preserving ancestral knowledge, and ensuring food security. She emphasized the need for women to be effectively included in all dialogues, starting within country delegations.

Encouragement and Trust Lead to a Seat at the Table

Omi shared her personal experience as an example of how encouragement and trust can lead to women's participation. She was sent to the negotiation table because her nation trusted her capability to ensure the best interests of her country. She noted that when she speaks, men listen.

As the world grapples with the urgent challenge of climate change, it is imperative that diverse voices, particularly those of women and Indigenous peoples, are not only present but actively engaged in shaping the outcomes of climate negotiations. Inclusivity is not merely about numbers; it is about ensuring that all voices are heard, valued, and reflected in the decisions that will impact the future of our planet.