Glimmer of hope

COP27 may be the last chance for world leaders to come together and fight the ecological crisis before it is too late

The UN Climate Change Conference COP27 will be one of the most defining global events in history as it may be perhaps the last chance for world leaders to come together and fight the ecological crisis before it is too late. In order to do so, First World countries and major contributors must lend their ears and listen to the plight of developing countries that have long been facing the adverse impacts of climate change.

At such a crucial juncture, where the world is embroiled in an economic and inequality crisis, vulnerable countries are asking for reparations to cope with ensuing damages and losses. This has long been met with resistance, especially from right wing leaders who altogether claim that climate change is a hoax and no such crisis really exists. As a result, progress is slow, change is still awaited and previous conferences have failed miserably. Discourse around climate change was heavily restricted and extended timelines were given to countries to bring about minimal changes. However, in a developing country like Pakistan, the reality of climate change is harsh and severe. The recent unprecedent monsoon rains and severe flood events have finally shown the world that climate change is here and very much real. To open up the discourse, it is commendable that the US is willing to talk about loss and damage, and is open to discuss the issue of “potential financial arrangements” for victims of climate change. This is the perfect opportunity for the developing world to push their agenda, set the tone, and make their own terms on the matter.

The space that the US — one of the highest global emitters — has opened up for this new discussion will prove to be decisive in making organisations heavily involved in the process accept their responsibility. But with that, we must not forget that radical change is required.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, November 6^th, 2022.

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