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recent speakers Climate and Health Summit In Abu Dhabi, conference organizers advise against ‘criticism of Islam, government, companies or individuals’ or protests united arab emirates (UAE), according to a recent survey Financial Times.
The chilling news comes as the UAE will host COP28, the global UN climate conference, at the end of the year.
The warning to the speakers was a stark reminder of the UAE government’s zero-tolerance policy towards criticism. Since 2011, UAE authorities have continued to crack down on freedom of expression and association, arrest and prosecution Dozens of independent lawyers, judges, teachers, students and activist, including Ahmed Mansoor, a prominent Emirati human rights defender.government shutdown major civil society associations Protesting is effectively prohibited by law. At the end of 2021, a wide range of legal changes were introduced which have deepen repression.
Asked whether criticism of government policies or businesses would be allowed during COP28, including through protests, the UAE spokesman said organizers would ensure that “there is a safe space where all voices can be heard.” Pervasive use of digital surveillance UAE’s zero tolerance for criticism even extends to jailing foreign residents and foreigners visit nation.
But beyond the specific dangers facing participants at COP28, there could be broader implications for those looking to advocate for urgent and ambitious climate action.Reporting on the health and climate hazards of fossil fuels in the UAE, this is One of the world’s largest oil producers and expands its operations, can be dangerous for those who want to do research or speak out.It also creates an ominous atmosphere civilized society An organization that has played a key role in calling on governments and businesses to undermine efforts to tackle the climate crisis by downplaying the conclusions of COP28.
In response to these concerns, the UNFCCC Secretariat, which is helping organize COP28 under UN auspices, has emphasized the importance of public participation to the success of the climate conference. Unless the UN and governments make this a priority and demand that the UAE loosen its grip on civic space and assert rights, there is a very real risk that many participants at COP28 will remain silent on key issues.This could have a disastrous effect on the success of the summit and the stated goals of the solutions it proposes The growing urgency of the climate crisis.
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