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Dubai: In a remarkable display of courage and determination, 12-year-old Indian climate activist Licypriya Kangujam seized the spotlight at the United Nations Climate Change Conference 2023 (COP28) in Dubai. She is serving as a Special Envoy of Timor Leste. During the ongoing event in Dubai, she boldly interrupted a high-level plenary session, delivering a powerful message: "End fossil fuels. Save our planet and our future."
The disruption garnered mixed reactions, with some delegates applauding Kangujam's impassioned plea. However, the bold protest also led to her detention for over half an hour. Post-demonstration, she faced further consequences as her conference accreditation was revoked. The aftermath of the incident stirred public outrage, prompting Kangujam to take to social media seeking support from key UN figures, including Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres and COP28 President Simon Stiell.
Here is the full video of my protest today disrupting the UN High Level Plenary Session of #COP28UAE. They detained me for over 30 minutes after this protest. My only crime- Asking to Phase Out Fossil Fuels, the top cause of climate crisis today. Now they kicked me out of COP28. pic.twitter.com/ToPIJ3K9zM
— Licypriya Kangujam (@LicypriyaK) December 11, 2023
On X, Kangujam questioned the revocation of her badge, emphasizing the contradiction between protesting against fossil fuels and the UN's response. She argued that such actions constituted a "gross violation and abuse of Child Rights in the UN premises." This incident illuminates the tension between the right to free expression and the stringent regulations governing protests at the summit.
Licypriya Kangujam's activism began at the age of seven, earning her recognition and awards, including a World Children’s Peace Prize. Her recent protest at COP28 underscores the pressing need for decisive action in the face of the climate crisis. As the debate intensifies on phasing out fossil fuels, Kangujam's actions echo the urgency felt by many, especially the younger generation.
I'm am child who is completely frustrated by today's climate crisis. We are the first line of victims. I feel the core issues of phasing out fossil fuels are keeping in side in the negotiations process going on in the COP28 with over 2500 fossil fuel lobbyists.
— Licypriya Kangujam (@LicypriyaK) December 11, 2023
After thinking…
As the world grapples with the consequences of climate change, Licypriya Kangujam's fearless protest resonates globally, urging leaders to heed the call for immediate and impactful measures. The intersection of youthful activism, global attention, and diplomatic responses creates a pivotal moment in the ongoing fight against climate change. Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving story.
