Papua New Guinea has officially decided to boycott the upcoming UN climate summit, labeling it a ‘waste of time’ due to the lack of tangible outcomes and empty pledges from major polluters. Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko stated that the country will instead focus on securing climate agreements through bilateral channels. This decision highlights a growing frustration among vulnerable nations regarding the effectiveness of international climate negotiations.
On October 31, Papua New Guinea announced its intention to boycott the upcoming UN climate summit, criticizing the global negotiations on climate change as a “waste of time” filled with empty assurances from major polluters. Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko expressed concerns about the effectiveness of such summits, stating that they yielded little substantial progress. Papua New Guinea, home to one of the world’s largest rainforests, underlined its vulnerability to climate change and the impotence of two decades of discussions that have not resulted in meaningful action. Tkatchenko asserted that the country will instead pursue bilateral agreements on climate initiatives, already engaging in discussions with Singapore. He emphasized that using direct negotiations instead of participating in the COP could yield significantly better outcomes for climate action.
Papua New Guinea has long been a critical voice in climate discussions, primarily due to its strategic position and biodiversity-rich environment. The nation, which is considerably impacted by climate change, has experienced frustration over the effectiveness of international climate negotiations. Countries commonly attend COP summits to address their obligations under agreements such as the Paris Accord, but many feel that meaningful progress is lacking, especially when it comes to commitments made by major industrialized nations. There is ongoing skepticism regarding the sincerity and accountability of these nations towards developing countries like Papua New Guinea, which bear the brunt of climate-related impacts despite contributing far less to overall emissions.
Papua New Guinea’s decision to boycott the UN climate summit is indicative of growing impatience among vulnerable nations regarding the seeming ineffectiveness of international climate negotiations. By choosing to engage bilaterally with like-minded countries such as Singapore, Papua New Guinea seeks to establish more effective climate partnerships rather than participate in what they perceive as unproductive discussions at the COP. This decision not only reflects the disillusionment with global talks but also represents a critical call for more immediate and tangible action against climate change.
Original Source: www.independent.co.ug
