COP29 was a defining moment for both climate action and diplomacy. As a first-time attendee, I realised that no number of preparatory readings or chats with colleagues who had attended COPs, could prepare me for this life-altering experience. Over two weeks in Baku, Azerbaijan, a lot happened. From international meetings to regional coordination meetings, press conferences and panels, to the national speeches, pledges and the cultural representation in the pavilions. While there, I felt a sense of belonging, which pleasantly surprised me.
COP is a melting pot of ideas, cultures and people of all backgrounds and ages. Young people worked alongside seasoned negotiators; youth activists voiced their demands to the high-ranking officials; and strangers became peers. The vibrant and shared passion for climate justice united everyone – a beautiful sight.
As a passionate 24-year-old advocate for gender equality, I focused on the “Climate and Gender” track. In the span of a few days, it became evident how significant gender is, in terms of tackling issues of other tracks. Climate change affects women differently than men. I witnessed the weight “gender” carries in negotiations by constantly seeing “Gender” mentioned in the text. I heard gender discussed in depth while attending panel discussions and coordination meetings of other tracks such as Adaptation and Mitigation, GGA- Global Goal on Adaptation, and Finance. At this COP that focused a lot on finance, the interconnectedness of gender with other issues such as poverty, economy and education was evident. To see gender being addressed so earnestly reaffirmed my own commitment to the cause.
While I did my best to follow the negotiations and consultations on gender, I spent most of the time in the delegation pavilions -- a whole other world. The COP venue is divided into three areas: rooms where the formal discussions were held; the Blue Zone where the organizations’ delegation pavilions are located; and the Green Zone where most of the private sector pavilions and hubs were located. Stepping into the Blue Zone where the pavilions were located, I was overwhelmed. I struggled trying to navigate the cubicles and aisles. It felt like a maze.
A remarkable event was the UNICEF youth representatives networking session, where we gathered and met for the first time. I spoke with around 30 young people - some familiar, some not - about their ambitions and how climate change affects their local communities. It was an eye-opening exchange.
By the end, we all realised that we have a lot more in common with each other than was first apparent. As an introvert, this newfound fondness to get to know others, their homes and their life stories pleasantly surprised me. Meeting the youngest youth representative, 10-year-old Georgina from Tanzania, and to see such a young generation of young people taking an active role and the lead in climate advocacy was particularly memorable. Her eloquence and passion gave me hope.
Every day at COP29, I attended panel discussions that inspired me and challenged my perspective. Each session introduced fresh insights and broadened my understanding, adding depth to how I approach discussions and advocacy.
The dialogue became particularly powerful when a young person or an indigenous speaker took the stage. Their passion, urgency and the weight of global disappointment were palpable, creating an electric energy in the room. It was a privilege to witness and be part of such transformative moments.
A highlight of my experience was serving as a panellist for a discussion organized by Island Innovations. I focused on Small Island Developing States and the importance of regional and international youth networks and collaboration for effective advocacy. I also highlighted the importance of intergeneration dialogue where all ages educate themselves and are given a chance to voice their concerns about climate. It was a lively conversation. I am grateful for the opportunity to gain insights that helped boost my confidence as a public speaker and explore the technical side of such issues.
One standout panel discussion was the workshop at the UAE pavilion on calculating carbon emissions. Led by women in STEM, it was an engaging and interactive session showcasing their research and innovations to combat climate change. One panellist launched a ChatGPT powered platform she had designed for Climate Resilient Girls, a platform to empower girls through carbon literacy and STEM. I enjoyed seeing action taken which felt far more hopeful than the usual emphasis on plans and strategies in climate justice.
I also had the opportunity to see the opening and closing plenaries, an experience that, frankly, deserves its own blogpost. Being in a room with so many world leaders was phenomenal; hearing their pledges and promises was both moving and hopeful. However, the closing plenary, (which lasted till 5 AM the following day!) exposed the not-so-glamorous reality and the stark differences between the priorities of the Global South and the Global North. Sitting in the audience and listening to the final outcome; the $300 billion per year to developing countries by the developed countries, an insignificant amount as opposed to the ambitious target hoped by the SIDS and other Developing Countries, was disappointing and gut-wrenching. I’ve repeatedly reminded myself since then that this was only one facet of a much larger experience; letting it define COP29 would do me no favours.
At the end of the day, I returned home with a renewed dedication. I know that my generation will keep pushing for sustainable and urgent action while holding the powerful accountable. Perhaps then, a different future with a habitable planet might just be possible.
Fathimath Muhammad Ahmed is the UNICEF Maldives Youth Advocate. She is passionate about climate action and reducing inequalities to protect children, women and the vulnerable from the impact of climate change. An aspiring diplomat, she is currently studying International Relations and has a deep understanding of the challenges young people in the Maldives face due to the climate crisis. Fathima plans to raise awareness and conduct research on climate change and inequality. At this year’s Youth Track to COP29 in the Maldives, she urged world leaders to act urgently for a liveable future for children and young people.
