Day 8 of COP28 saw the resumption of negotiations after a rest day, marking a crucial phase in the push for a final deal. The debate over the host for COP29 took an unexpected turn as Armenia expressed support for Azerbaijan’s bid, potentially breaking the deadlock. However, this decision raised concerns among climate campaigners, as it would mean another year with a petrostate hosting the UN climate conference.
Civil society delegates, particularly those expressing solidarity with Palestine, reported unprecedented levels of policing. Demonstrations were relocated to less visible areas, and strict time zone rules limited protests during the day, leading to claims of increased censorship.
A press conference on ministerial pairings shed light on the collaboration between environmental ministers from the Global North and Global South to address political challenges and bridge divides in the negotiations. Additionally, over 800 leaders sent a letter supporting a final deal to keep global warming within 1.5°C, emphasizing the urgency of action.
COP28 featured individuals like 16-year-old Nafiso from Somalia advocating for the rights of children impacted by climate change. She shared concerns about climate-related challenges faced by her family, including floods and droughts affecting education and health.
More than 800 leaders called for specific actions, including an orderly phase-out of fossil fuels, scaling up and shifting finance, and halting deforestation, to keep the 1.5°C goal alive. The outcomes are expected to be supported by countries’ Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and National Adaptation Plans before COP30 in 2025.
