COP28, the UN Climate Change Conference, commences in Dubai, hosting representatives from around 200 states for discussions on addressing the climate crisis. The conference aims to review the progress of the Paris Climate Accords in limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius to prevent irreversible consequences of climate change.

Despite the attendance of around 70,000 participants, the conference faces challenges in reaching unanimous agreement, particularly regarding the exit from fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas. Many countries are behind in their climate protection plans, with current strategies insufficient to meet the 1.5-degree goal.

New UN reports suggest a potential rise of up to 2.9 degrees Celsius compared to pre-industrial times, highlighting the urgency for action. Activists and non-governmental organizations express concern over strict monitoring in the UAE, where protests are limited to the conference grounds.

Criticism has arisen over Sultan Ahmed al-Jaber’s leadership as COP28 president, given his dual role as head of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), prompting calls for his replacement due to perceived conflicts of interest.