UAE’s Suppression of Debate at COP28: Undermining Climate Action and Human Rights

United Arab Emirates Faces Criticism Over COP28 Priorities and Human Rights Record

Ahead of the 28th Conference of Parties (COP28) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which is set to take place in Dubai starting on November 30th, concerns are growing over the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) priorities and its human rights record. Reports have surfaced indicating that the UAE has defined a narrow list of talking points for its officials at the conference and is seeking to avoid discussion of its human rights abuses.

Greenwashing Fossil Fuel Expansion

Marta Schaaf, Amnesty International’s Director of Climate, Economic and Social Justice, and Corporate Accountability programme, has accused the UAE of prioritizing the greenwashing of its fossil fuel expansion plans at COP28. She argues that instead of engaging in meaningful change to address the climate crisis and rapidly end the use of fossil fuels, the UAE is using the conference to massage its own reputation.

The concerns raised by Schaaf highlight a common criticism faced by countries heavily reliant on fossil fuels. As the world moves towards decarbonization and renewable energy, these countries often face pressure to transition their economies while protecting vested interests in the fossil fuel industry. In this case, the UAE‘s priorities at COP28 raise questions about its commitment to climate action and its willingness to tackle the root causes of the climate crisis.

Avoiding Discussion of Human Rights Abuses

In addition to concerns over greenwashing, Amnesty International and other human rights organizations have criticized the UAE for attempting to avoid discussion of its human rights record and ongoing abuses. Schaaf argues that the UAE‘s draconian and ill-defined laws, which allow for the arrest of anyone expressing dissent, the suppression of critics and political opponents, and the criminalization of same-sex relationships, undermine the principles of an inclusive and rights-focused COP.

This attempt to suppress and limit public debate is seen by human rights advocates as a clear violation of the principles of transparency and accountability that should underpin international climate negotiations. By stifling dissent and avoiding scrutiny of its human rights record, the UAE risks undermining its credibility as the host of COP28 and failing to deliver on its pledge to hold an inclusive conference.

Climate Action and Human Rights

The intersection of climate action and respecting human rights is an increasingly important topic of discussion. The impacts of climate change disproportionately affect marginalized communities and vulnerable populations, exacerbating existing social and economic inequalities.

Amnesty International argues that COP28 must agree to bring an end to the fossil fuel era swiftly and justly to avert a full-scale climate catastrophe. The organization also calls for climate finance commitments that protect communities and ensure that the agreed-upon climate loss and damage fund becomes operational and effective.

In this context, the concerns raised about the UAE‘s priorities and human rights record highlight the challenges governments face in reconciling economic and political interests with the urgent need for climate action. The influence of fossil fuel companies, which often prioritize profit over human rights concerns, continues to be a significant obstacle.

Editorial: Striking the Balance Between Climate Action and Human Rights

The concerns surrounding the UAE‘s priorities at COP28 and its human rights record raise important questions about how countries should approach the intersection of climate action and human rights.

On one hand, urgent action is needed to address the climate crisis and transition away from fossil fuel dependency. This transition requires cooperation and commitments from all countries, including those heavily reliant on the fossil fuel industry. However, it is crucial that this transition is carried out in a just and equitable manner, ensuring that the rights and well-being of affected communities are protected.

When countries that have poor human rights records host international climate conferences, they must be held accountable for their actions. Their role as hosts should be used as an opportunity to address both climate change and human rights, rather than shying away from discussions of their shortcomings. This requires a commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and meaningful engagement with civil society organizations.

Furthermore, the influence of fossil fuel companies in shaping climate policies cannot be ignored. To ensure that COP28 and future climate conferences prioritize human rights and the well-being of communities over corporate interests, strict regulations and safeguards must be put in place to prevent undue influence and ensure accountability.

Advice: Ensuring a Rights-Focused and Inclusive COP

As COP28 approaches, it is essential for governments, civil society organizations, and climate activists to work together in holding the UAE accountable for its priorities and human rights record. Here are a few recommendations:

1. Transparent Dialogue

Pressure the UAE to engage in transparent dialogue by addressing concerns about its fossil fuel expansion plans and human rights record. Call for open discussions on these topics during COP28 and ensure that civil society organizations, affected communities, and human rights advocates have a platform to raise their concerns.

2. Strengthen Human Rights Safeguards

Advocate for the integration of human rights safeguards into climate action and negotiations. This includes ensuring that climate finance commitments prioritize the protection and empowerment of affected communities, particularly those that are most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

3. Corporate Accountability

Highlight the need for corporate accountability within the fossil fuel industry. Push for stricter regulations and transparency measures to prevent fossil fuel companies from prioritizing profits over human rights and the climate crisis.

4. Support Civil Society Organizations

Provide support and resources to civil society organizations working on climate justice and human rights. Amplify their voices and ensure their representation in COP28 discussions and decision-making processes.

With concerted efforts and a commitment to placing human rights at the center of climate action, COP28 has the potential to be a turning point in addressing both the climate crisis and human rights abuses. The UAE and other countries must embrace this opportunity to lead by example and prioritize the well-being of the planet and its people.

ClimateAction–climateaction,humanrights,UAE,COP28,suppressionofdebate