The COP28 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change summit is set to begin, Thursday, in Dubai, UAE. Egypt will pass the baton of the COP27 presidency to the UAE during the event, running from November 30th to December 12th. This significant global gathering will see approximately 70,000 individuals from 198 signatory countries converge at the Expo Dubai site.
COP28 in the UAE marks a pivotal moment for the world to unite and advance tangible climate action and solutions. Achieving this requires collaboration between civil society, governments, industries, and all sectors of the economy. COP28 stands as one of the largest and most significant international gatherings in 2023, drawing global attention.
As the highest decision-making process globally on climate issues, COP28 is expected to host over 70,000 delegates, including state leaders and world influencers. They aim to build consensus and facilitate climate action progress among parties, delegates, thousands of NGOs, businesses, youth groups, and other stakeholders.
COP28 holds special importance as it represents the conclusion of the first Global Stocktake since the Paris Agreement. Governments will decide on the Global Stocktake at COP28, which could be leveraged to accelerate ambition in the next round of climate action plans set for 2025.
COP28’s presidency has conducted one of the most comprehensive engagement and listening tours ever, alongside the first-ever open consultation for the two-week COP28 agenda. Guided by the single North Star of keeping the 1.5°C temperature goal within reach, the summit’s program highlights sectors and themes repeatedly raised during informal consultations, including annual COP agenda programs like energy and finance, and new key themes like health, trade, relief, recovery, and peace.
The thematic day programming also includes four comprehensive pillars supporting effective and interconnected implementation: technology and innovation, inclusivity, frontline communities, and finance.
COP28’s presidency, in collaboration with women, indigenous peoples, local communities, youth, persons with disabilities, sub-national actors, and religious organizations, ensures their contributions are included in all programs and outcomes. COP28 will also host a record number of parliamentarians, mayors, and local leaders.
It’s noteworthy that the UNFCCC Secretariat, established in 1992 when countries adopted the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, initially based in Geneva, Switzerland, moved to Bonn, Germany, in 1996. The Secretariat supports the global response to the climate change threat.
