Youth activists demand action as COP29 nears conclusion

Negotiators at the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) faced mounting pressure on Friday, November 22, the last scheduled day of the talks. Youth activists and environmental groups took center stage, demanding urgent action on climate finance and decrying human rights abuses against climate defenders.

In a powerful display, youth groups symbolically taped their mouths shut to highlight the silencing of climate activists worldwide. Among them was 21-year-old Kenyan activist Georgina Kerubo, a member of the Global Young Green organization, who emphasized the importance of raising awareness about climate issues.

“As an activist, it is my duty to educate my people on issues that are truly relevant to us. That’s why I’m here—to create awareness and ensure that these topics are discussed,” Kerubo stated during the “Human Rights Die in Silence” protest.

Groups such as Human Rights Watch have voiced concerns over increasing repression faced by environmental defenders in various regions.

Away from the protest, another activist criticized wealthy nations for prioritizing military spending over climate finance.

“Every single one of us will die if you do not commit the necessary funds for climate finance not pennies, but the trillions we need,” the activist declared.

Experts estimate that developing nations require at least $1 trillion for effective climate adaptation. However, the draft agreement unveiled Friday proposes only $250 billion in funding by 2035, far below the required amount.

The $100 billion annual commitment by wealthy nations, originally agreed upon in 2009, has remained stagnant despite escalating climate challenges.

As COP29 progresses, the gap between demands and proposed solutions remains wide. The conference, initially set to conclude Friday, is expected to extend into overtime as negotiators work to address these pressing issues.