Source · Select Committees · Foreign Affairs Committee
Recommendation 12
12
Paragraph: 34
For COP26 to be successful, the Government will need to ensure that negotiations are inclusive...
Recommendation
For COP26 to be successful, the Government will need to ensure that negotiations are inclusive and take into account the viewpoints of the Least Developed Countries and the countries most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. It will not be possible to guarantee that negotiations are inclusive unless the Government ensures that people from the world’s Least Developed Countries have effective access to them. Poor internet access and connectivity could prove a real barrier to hosting an inclusive conference. Diplomatic efforts during the pandemic and recovery must recognise these challenges, participants should be supported with accessing negotiations 22 A climate for ambition: Diplomatic preparations for COP26 and the Government must recognise situations where in-person diplomacy is needed. The event should be viewed as an opportunity to look at new ways of connecting communities, not just an obstacle.
Paragraph Reference:
34
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
12.1 We are working tirelessly to deliver a safe, successful COP26 in Glasgow this November and want to be able to hold this in-person. We are aware that many parties, in particular the Least Developed Countries and those vulnerable to the effects of First Special Report of Session 2021–22 13 climate change, feel strongly that COPs should be conducted in person. On 11 June the Government announced that it will provide vaccines for COP delegates otherwise unable to access them and is exploring with the UN how we can deliver this together. This offer is essential for delivering an in-person COP, which is critical to a successful outcome at the Summit itself. We are at the early stages of developing this offer and will set out further details in due course. 12.2 In addition to our contingency planning, we are considering how we can build on new ways of working and advances in technology to enhance participation and inclusivity. 12.3 We know that some parties have concerns with virtualisation and of course there are practical challenges delivering virtual elements. The world of virtual events is moving fast and we need to be open to learning and adapting plans as lessons are learnt and people’s attitudes towards them change. We will work closely with all our partners, and the UNFCCC, to consider what the right virtual offer could be for COP26.