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Young climate activists from African nations have high demands but low expectations for the UN climate conference which begins Sunday in the Egyptian coastal resort of Sharm el-Sheikh.
Observers and organizers of the COP27 summit have made much of its location, branding the conference as an African COP where the positions of African countries on issues like finance for adapting to climate change or moving to renewable energy sources will be central to the talks.
Activists hope that’s true.
For COP27 to be the ‘African COP’, the needs, voices, and priorities of the African people need to be reflected in the outcome of the negotiations,» Kenyan climate activist Elizabeth Wathuti told The Associated Press. «COP27 is a chance to bring justice to the most impacted countries through global solidarity and cooperation.
Analysts point to sticking points between richer and poorer nations, such as questions around whether vulnerable countries should receive compensation for climate-related catastrophes, known as loss and damage in climate negotiations, as hindering progress at previous summits.
Some youth activists, like Wathuti, say that the continent should be looking to rich nations for massive emissions cuts and for compensation for loss and damage caused by climate catastrophes. Africa is responsible for only 3% to 4% of global emissions despite having 17% of the world’s population but it is more vulnerable than most places as many people, especially those outside urban centers, are less able to adapt.
Financial delivery is fundamental to enable the development of Africa,» Wathuti said.
