The world’s leaders have gathered in Dubai, UAE for the UN climate change conference. Set to begin in November 30 and last until December 12, the UN climate conference – COP28, will see two weeks of intense discussions and negotiations as countries work to deliver on an array of de-carbonisation promises.
As COP28 begins in Dubai, the climate conference is being called the most crucial yet, as the year saw record high temperatures and warnings that we are on track to cross the self-imposed goal of limiting global warming to below 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Here are five things to know about the COP28 summit:
What is COP28?
COP stands for the Conference of the Parties. Held under the ambit of the United Nations, the annual climate change conference will see its 28th meeting this year. The conference brings together heads of state, and governments to negotiate goals to fight climate change. COP aims to get parties to agree on action that will be pledged in a final document.
Where is it happening?
COP28 starts Thursday in Expo City, Dubai. A key part of the conference will start Friday with a two-day leaders’ summit, during which about 140 heads of state or government will present plans to fight climate change. The conference will go on until December 12, though negotiations could run over, as has happened in the past.
How to watch?
While discussions and negotiations happen behind closed doors, many parties hold sessions that are live streamed through the two weeks. You can watch the live stream of the COP28 Opening ceremony on the UN’s YouTube channel or stay on the page to see the video right here.
Additionally, session live streams can be accessed on the UN Climate Change website‘s schedule of events.
What is the agenda and theme for COP28 in Dubai?
The annual meet reviews the implementation of the UNFCCC terms, Paris Agreement, and Kyoto Protocol. This year, member states will negotiate while facing their first Global Stocktake (GST) – a scorecard analysing countries’ progress towards the Paris Agreement – so they can adapt their next climate action plans which are due in 2025.
Who will attend?
More than 140 heads of state, senior government leaders and at least 70,000 participants are expected to attend COP28.
Britain’s King Charles III, will attend the conference and deliver an address at the opening ceremony. Rishi Sunak, prime minister of the United Kingdom, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US Vice President Kamala Harris are some names who have confirmed their presence at the climate summit.
