Uganda, like many developing countries, grapples with the adverse effects of climate change, the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) of United Nations Frame work Convention on Climate Change is a very important event for environmental human rights defenders (EHRDs) in Uganda. As Nations convene from the 30th of November – 12th of December 2023 in Dubai to discuss the future of our planet, the outcomes of the conference for those on the front lines of environmental protection in Uganda cannot be overstated.
Uganda is also highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Rising temperatures, to unpredictable weather patterns pose a significant threat to the country’s eco-systems and livelihoods. In this context, EHRDs play a crucial role in defending the rights of grass root communities directly impacted by climate change induced disasters.
COP28 is an important moment for EHRDs, as global leaders will be meeting to assess the progress that has been made in attaining the climate targets under the Paris Agreement (End of first Global Stock Take), but also the discussion on Climate financing will be prioritized. The link between environmental issues and human rights has become increasingly apparent, with marginalized communities often bearing the brunt of environmental degradation. In Uganda, where over 80 percent of population rely on agriculture for their livelihoods, the impact of climate change is felt acutely.
Before opening of the meeting, one of the key expectations from COP28 was the operationalization of the New Loss and Damage Fund which was proposed at Sharma-el-sheikh at COP27 in Egypt. The world is thrilled because a deal to operationalize the fund was reached on the first day of the COP, this comes with great expectations for EHRDs in Uganda who hope for a robust commitment from the developed Nations to support adaptation and mitigation efforts that prioritize the needs and rights of those most affected.
Furthermore, EHRDs are also interested in discussions of easy access to the Green Climate Fund and how it can be leveraged to support initiatives aimed at building resilience in vulnerable communities. The fund is surrounded by stringent bureaucratic processes which has made it impossible for those at the frontlines of championing climate mitigation and adaptation to access it. Adequate financing for climate adaptation and mitigation projects is a crucial aspect of ensuring that the most affected communities receive the support they need.
At this year’s COP, countries are also due to adopt a framework for achieving the Paris Agreement’s global goal on adaptation. The GGA is intended to focus countries’ efforts to enhance adaptive capacity, strengthen resilience and reduce vulnerability to climate change. This is an issue that EHRDs in Uganda are interested in. The new frame work is intended to enable governments and relevant organizations to pursue and measure adaptation progress with greater focus.
As the world works towards concrete solutions to addressing the climate crisis, the outcomes of COP28 have the potential to greatly impact the environmental protection landscape in Uganda. The hope is that the conference will result in actionable commitments, increased awareness of the human rights implications of climate change, and a strengthened global resolve to support EHRDs in the struggle for better communities and a healthy planet.
Written by: Ronald Nampura
Litigation Associate
rnampura@greendealglobal.org
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