Oxfam France, an international aid organization dedicated to fighting poverty and inequality, is being urged to reconsider its participation in the upcoming COP28 conference to be held in the United Arab Emirates. The conference, which is mainly aimed at addressing the global climate crisis, raises serious concerns about the ability of the UAE to credibly host such a conference. Furthermore, the appointment of a petroleum industry chief as the President of COP28 only serves to exacerbate these concerns.

Fossil Fuels: Backbone of UAE’s Economy

The UAE’s heavy reliance on fossil fuels is a clear indication that the country is not serious about tackling the global climate crisis. Although the UAE has declared ambitious targets for renewable energy, it has yet to implement policies to achieve these objectives. The nation is one of the world’s largest emitters of greenhouse gasses per capita and produces 90% of its energy from fossil fuels. As a result, the credibility of the COP28 conference, which seeks to tackle the global climate crisis, is in question.

Previous Records

The UAE’s record on human rights is also deeply concerning. The country has been accused of a range of human rights violations, including the exploitation of migrant workers, restrictions on freedom of expression and association, and discrimination against women and certain communities. The UAE’s involvement in the war in Yemen has also been widely criticized, with numerous reports of war crimes and violations of international humanitarian law.

How can Oxfam France Help?

In light of these concerns, Oxfam France is being urged to reconsider its participation in COP28. As an organization dedicated to fighting poverty and inequality, Oxfam France is uniquely positioned to advocate for the needs of those most affected by climate change, including those living in poverty and marginalized communities. By not participating in COP28, Oxfam France can send a clear message that the UAE’s lack of action on climate change and human rights violations are unacceptable and undermine the credibility of the conference.

Role of Sultan Al-Jaber in COP28

Moreover, the presence of Sultan Al-Jaber, a controversial individual, in the COP28 raises concerns about the conference’s true intentions. It is paradoxical to have a representative from an oil industry that bears much responsibility for the climate crisis leading a conference aimed at addressing it. This only adds to the doubts about the COP28 conference’s credibility and its ability to produce significant outcomes.

Oxfam France’s Vision contradicts COP28 UAE

Oxfam France has a long history of advocating for climate justice and supporting communities most affected by climate change. By not participating in COP28, Oxfam France can send a powerful message that the international community will not tolerate UAE’s inaction on climate change and human rights violations. Oxfam France can also continue to work with its partners and allies to push for meaningful action on climate change and to support those most affected by its impacts.

Results of not Participating

Oxfam France is being urged to reconsider its participation in COP28 due to serious concerns about the UAE’s lack of action on climate change, human rights violations, and the appointment of a petroleum industry chief as the President of the conference. Oxfam France has a unique opportunity to advocate for the needs of those most affected by climate change and to send a clear message that inaction on climate change and human rights violations are unacceptable.

Hence, why Oxfam France should think a great deal. It is better to not participate considering the negatory aspects related to the event. It is essential that the overall perception of this event taking place in the UAE is negative and it will have an impact on Oxfam France as well.