Organizers of COP28 want an inclusive summit. But just how diverse is the negotiating table?

By UZMI ATHAR, Press Trust of India

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Many women, young people and Indigenous voices say they feel they’re relegated to mere attendance, with limited opportunities to contribute substantially to the decisive meetings, despite promises to make the talks more inclusive. But even attendance at the talks is lopsided, making meaningful inclusion even more difficult. COP28 president Sultan al-Jaber has promised to ensure that this year’s climate summit and negotiations will be the most inclusive and action-oriented yet, bringing in perspectives from all sides of the debate — from young activists to fossil fuel companies.