From COP 27 to COP 28

20 Jul 2023

On June 21st, the Swedish Dialogue Institute for the Middle East and North Africa organized a digital roundtable discussion titled "From COP 27 to COP 28 - Experiences, Reflections, and Recommendations". The objective was to gather climate experts and activists of diverse backgrounds and ages from the MENA region and Sweden to reflect on the experiences from attending COP27 and to exchange ideas and shape recommendations for the upcoming COP28. The discussion focused on inclusivity, sustainable development, and promoting participatory processes.

During the discussions, participants shared key takeaways from COP27, reflected on generational gaps in climate decision-making, and provided concrete recommendations for enhanced inclusivity at COP28. Some of the key points raised and take-aways from the discussion included:

  • In addressing climate change, adaptation and mitigation strategies should be employed together. These strategies complement each other and form a comprehensive approach to climate change.
  • The inception of the UN's Loss and Damage Fund Transitional Committee during COP27 highlights the need for a trust-building framework between the global north and global south, crucial for assisting low-income, climate-vulnerable nations in managing climate change impacts. It is vital to engage major oil companies in conversations about climate change to increase their understanding and motivate them to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
  • To bridge the generational gaps in climate decision-making, it is essential to enable youth participation and inclusion. This can include, for example, the provision of negotiation and mediation training prior to attending COPs, support in the visa application process for climate activists, particularly those from the Global South as well as ensuring equal speaking time for young and old.
  • To maintain momentum in addressing the climate agenda in the MENA region beyond COP28, countries in the global north and south must prioritize the needs and solutions of those most impacted by climate change. In this the Dialogue Institute should continue to organize regular roundtables involving participants from both the MENA region and Europe.

For more information read the full report on the meeting.

Last updated 04 Sep 2023, 2.05 PM