As the United Nations Climate Change Conference COP28 unfolds in the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament call on the European Union and other global leaders to intensify climate action while protecting vulnerable communities against the devastating impacts of global warming.

Tomorrow, the S&D Group will send a delegation to the Dubai Climate Change Conference. 

S&D vice-president on the Green Deal, Mohammed Chahim, who is leading the delegation, said: 

“In the face of climate change, vulnerable communities are disproportionately affected. It’s imperative that we deliver on sufficient funding for the long-promised Loss and Damage Fund to ensure timely and effective support. Developing countries and the poorest communities are the least responsible for greenhouse gas emissions, yet they suffer the most. No one should be left to bear the burden alone. 

“We cannot achieve the Paris Agreement goals while propping up industries that harm our planet. Phasing out fossil fuel subsidies is not just an environmental necessity, but also a crucial step towards a cleaner and more resilient future. Let’s redirect these resources towards renewable and affordable energy sources that benefit us all. 

“The transition to renewable energy is non-negotiable. By establishing a global target for renewables, we send a clear signal that the era of fossil fuel dependency is ending. It’s time to harness the power of renewable energy and drive positive change for our planet and future generations. 

“Transparency is the bedrock of effective climate negotiations. We must address conflicts of interest head-on, ensuring that decisions made at COPs are driven by the collective good rather than individual gain. Hosting a climate summit while simultaneously having ties to a fossil fuel company, or extending invitations to a record number of such enterprises to attend COP28, sends a conflicting message that undermines credibility. 

“As we embark on the first global stocktake, it’s a pivotal moment to assess our progress and recalibrate our commitments. I expect parties to increase their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)* in order to keep the goals of the Paris Agreement within reach. Our unwavering support for this process underscores our dedication to transparency, accountability, and the shared responsibility we have to combat the climate crisis together. 

“Climate change is already knocking at our doors, and we’re answering the call. By advocating for a global goal on adaptation, we’re building resilience in communities most vulnerable to climate impacts. We’re not just mitigating the effects - we must prepare for and safeguard against them. Adaptation is protection, and thus a top priority for the S&Ds.” 

The S&D Group delegation, composed of Mohammed Chahim, Heléne Fritzon and Javi López, looks forward to engaging with global leaders, stakeholders, and the public at COP28 to drive meaningful change and advance the shared goal of a safer and fairer future. 

*Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) are pledges made by countries participating in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), particularly at Conference of the Parties (COP) meetings. NDCs outline a country’s climate action plan, including its targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the impacts of climate change. These contributions play a crucial role in global efforts to address climate change and are periodically updated by each country.