The Global Climate Change Conference, COP28, started on Nov 29 and concluded on Dec 12. With 84,000 registered attendees, this year’s COP proved successful in terms of participation. Throughout COP28, Nepal, chair of the Least Developed Countries (LDCs), underscored the pressing need for dialogue concerning mountain and climate change issues. 

The Nepali Pavilion took an active role by hosting a minimum of five sideline events daily. The conference had an estimated 250 Nepali delegates, half of whom were youths, actively engaging in the conference. Pratik Ghimire of ApEx interviewed three such youths to gather insights into their COP28 experiences.

Pratima Khadgi

As a representative of UNDP Nepal, I played diverse roles during the initial phase of COP28. My active involvement in event management bolstered UNDP’s presence and ensured smooth operations. I fervently advocated for youth engagement in climate action at the international pavilion, enhancing Nepal’s global visibility.

Participating in various sessions provided me with an understanding of climate change from different perspectives. Discussions on climate financing complexities underscored its pivotal role in fostering sustainable initiatives. This experience significantly improved my understanding and reinforced my determination to tackle climate challenges.

I engaged wholeheartedly in COP28 discussions, leaving the event enriched with valuable insights and a renewed dedication to champion environmental causes.

Shreya KC

This being my fourth COP, I’m familiar with the decision-making processes and the roles of civil society, youth, and most affected countries. Yet, sitting in the closing plenary, I can’t ignore the doubts about the legitimacy of processes that allow a few countries to overpower many voices, consistently sidelining the most vulnerable. This space repeatedly excludes them.

While I’m inspired by fellow passionate youth, this experience has taken a toll on my mental health and physical well-being. Leading youth engagement in the global stocktake process kept me occupied amid late-night discussions. I was stressed but hopeful for meaningful outcomes.

The final global stocktake result falls short, acknowledging urgency without a clear roadmap. Notably, fossil fuel lobbyists increased significantly, but I found inspiration in Small Island Developing States (SIDs) pushing for more ambitious outcomes.

Prakriti Koirala

This marks my third COP attendance, where I’ve consistently participated as a negotiator under the ‘Party’ badge. In previous COPs, my primary focus was on engaging in loss and damage (L&D) negotiations. But, this time, at the request of the LDCs chair, I took on the responsibility of organizing events in the LDC pavilion. While my previous experiences largely centered on the negotiation process, this new engagement in event organization provided me with a unique and enriching learning experience. 

I had the opportunity to participate as a speaker and panelist in various events as well.

Although there’s room for improvement, I’m pleased with the progress made on our major agendas this year, particularly the establishment of the L&D fund and addressing mountainous agendas.

I’m also thrilled about the increased youth involvement. Their active participation in protests, negotiations, and other events is a promising indication that the younger generation is taking climate change seriously. Additionally, I’ve established valuable networks during this COP, fostering connections that could lead to fruitful collaborations in the future.