The criticism COP26 received in relation to a lack of representation, ought to serve as a reminder that individuals are scrutinising this behaviour, focusing on notions of equality, diversity and inclusion.
The COP26 Coalition, alongside other organisations, publicly criticised the official summit for its lack of representation of Southern Hemisphere states. Due to visa and accreditation issues, Covid-19 restrictions, lack of vaccine accessibility and inflated costs of accommodation, only 3 out 14 Pacific island-nation delegates (the regions most vulnerable to the climate crisis) were able to attend the event. In the meantime, the BBC reported that fossil fuel companies sent 503 representatives.
Local Futures, a non-profit organisation that promotes the sustainability of local economies, reported that the participation of giants from the tech, agricultural and banking industries overshadowed the voices of minority groups. Furthermore, Isreali Minister, Karine Elharrar was unable to attend the first days of the event, due to a lack of wheelchair accessibility at the venue.
Possible course of action:
guarantee that marginalised and minority groups are offered a platform and are heard, in particular in relation to subject matters that directly affect them, of which they possess profound knowledge. When investments are made into sustainability projects, the most adversely affected regions (oftentime in the Southern Hemisphere) ought to be given priority.
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