COP29 Criticized for Lack of Action

Prime Minister James Marape of Papua New Guinea has boycotted the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, criticizing major carbon emitters for their lack of commitment to meaningful action against climate change. He expressed disappointment over the absence of serious pledges from industrialized nations regarding fossil fuel reduction and forest preservation. Concurrently, a coalition of former leaders and climate experts has published an open letter declaring that the COP process is no longer effective in delivering the necessary changes to combat climate crises, arguing for a fundamental overhaul of the negotiation structure. The letter highlights the need for a reduction in global greenhouse gas emissions and criticizes the influence of fossil fuel lobbyists on the conference. Tensions at COP29 have been exacerbated by Azerbaijan's president labeling Western nations as climate hypocrites amid protests against the oil and gas industry. The coalition's call for reform underscores the urgency for the COP meetings to better facilitate climate action and support for affected nations.