Papua New Guinea has announced its boycott of COP29 U.N. climate talks in response to perceived insincerity in the pledges made by the world’s major polluters. Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko articulated the nation’s unwillingness to accept empty promises while suffering from climate change consequences and conveyed a readiness to resort to deforestation for economic survival. The country intends to seek bilateral agreements instead.
On November 1, 2024, Papua New Guinea’s government announced its decision to boycott the upcoming COP29 U.N. climate summit. This decision was fueled by their frustration with the incomplete commitments from major global polluters, which they perceived as little more than “empty talk.” Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko stated that the nation could no longer endure the inaction that continues to exacerbate the effects of climate change on its population. He emphasized a willingness to take drastic measures, including deforestation, to support the economic development of Papua New Guinea. Instead of participating in the international talks, the country intends to pursue climate agreements on a bilateral basis with other nations.
Papua New Guinea is one of the countries most affected by climate change, experiencing severe impacts such as rising sea levels and changes in rainfall patterns. Despite global recognition of climate issues, many developing nations like Papua New Guinea feel that commitments made at international levels often lack substance and action. This backdrop of growing dissatisfaction with international climate negotiations has led to heightened calls for concrete action, particularly from nations vulnerable to environmental changes and disasters.
The withdrawal of Papua New Guinea from COP29 underscores the growing frustration among developing nations regarding the efficacy of international climate commitments. By opting out of the talks and signaling a move towards bilateral agreements, Papua New Guinea aims to prioritize tangible outcomes over unfulfilled promises, highlighting the urgent need for substantial climate action that addresses the needs of affected populations.
Original Source: www.democracynow.org
