Youth-led ‘Road to COP28’ kicks off in Expo City Dubai, several initiatives launched

 

The first COP28 Presidency-hosted and youth-led event ‘Road to COP28’ opened Wednesday at Expo City Dubai, under the patronage of Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the UAE and Chairman of the Higher Committee overseeing preparations for the climate conference HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The event, attended by COP28 leadership, ambassadors to the UAE, and senior government officials, underscores a significant moment for the Emirati youth to come together and join the wider community towards mobilising an all-of-society effort towards the climate summit.

The Mideast nation will be hosting the upcoming COP28 climate conference in November this year, with Sultan Al Jaber, who heads the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, as its president. Although numerous environmentalists have expressed doubts over Al Jaber’s appointment, they must give him a chance as he is precisely the kind of ally the climate movement currently needs.

‘Road to COP28’ began with an interactive morning programme to inspire, educate and empower youngsters aged 7 to 15 to understand and effectively confront climate change. The event aligns with COP28’s goal to accelerate global climate action, with all individuals and organisations involved working together to fulfill the promises made for future generations.

With effective climate action at the centre stage, the iconic event revolves around four essential strategic pillars: education, voice, participation, and action. A number of key initiatives will be launched during the course of the event in order to better enhance the involvement of the youth in the UN climate process.