The annual Conference of Parties (COP) is a critical event that brings together leaders, experts, and negotiators from around the world to address the pressing issue of climate change. With global temperatures rising, natural disasters becoming more frequent, and communities facing the consequences, it is essential that we come together to find solutions and take action.
However, in the midst of intense negotiations, political agendas, and competing interests, we must not forget the core of what the COP is all about – people. This is a message that Yamide Dagnet, the Senior Vice President of the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), is reminding us of. She emphasizes that we must never lose our humanity in the process and strive for a joint approach to COP.
At its core, climate change is a people’s issue. It affects all of us, regardless of nationality, socioeconomic status, or political affiliation. The impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events, droughts, and sea-level rise, are felt by communities all over the world. Therefore, it is only fitting that the COP should be approached as a conference of the people, by the people, and for people.
The COP process should not be a battle between a ‘COP of the people’ and a ‘COP of negotiators.’ Instead, it should be a collaborative effort where everyone has a voice and is heard. The decisions made at the COP have a significant impact on people’s lives, especially those who are most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Therefore, it is crucial that their voices are not only heard but also considered in the negotiations.
In recent years, we have seen a rise in the involvement of non-governmental organizations, indigenous peoples, youth, and local communities in the COP process. This is a positive development as it not only brings a diversity of perspectives but also ensures that the decisions made are inclusive and representative of the people they will affect.
Moreover, we must remember that climate change does not have a one-size-fits-all solution. Each region, each country, and each community is facing a unique set of challenges. Therefore, it is crucial that the COP process takes into account the differing needs and concerns of people from different parts of the world.
As we approach the COP26 in Glasgow later this year, it is essential to keep in mind the human aspect of the conference. The decisions made at COP will have a direct impact on people’s lives and livelihoods. It is time to move beyond political agendas and focus on finding common ground. It is time to put people and their well-being at the center of our discussions and actions.
There is a famous African proverb that says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” This sentiment rings especially true for the COP process. We need to work together to find lasting solutions to the climate crisis. We need to build a sense of collective responsibility and solidarity if we are to make real progress.
The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us the importance of global cooperation and solidarity in the face of a crisis. It has also highlighted the resilience and adaptability of people when faced with adversity. Let us take these lessons and apply them to the COP process to create a more inclusive, people-centered approach.
In conclusion, the COP is not just a platform for negotiations; it is a conference for the people. We must never lose sight of the human aspect of the conference and strive for a joint approach where everyone’s voices are heard and their needs are considered. Let us work towards a COP that is truly of the people, by the people, and for people, for the sake of our planet and its inhabitants.
