COP16: Action or Empty Promises?
Juliana Madriñán
November 24, 2024
In a world on the brink of climate catastrophe, global summits like COP16 are often praised as a chance to make active progress. Yet, as this specific conference in Cali, Colombia, concluded, the question of whether these high-profile declarations translate into meaningful change remained. Behind the optimistic speeches and handshakes lies a sobering reality: governments continue to fall short of their promises, powerful nations remain hesitant to lead the charge, and those advocating for the environment face growing threats.
Held from Oct. 21 to Nov. 1, COP16 focused on the overlapping climate change and biodiversity loss crises. The protection of ecosystems is now understood to be inextricably linked to the fight against climate change as the loss of biodiversity exacerbates the environmental crisis. COP summits have long been seen as the world’s opportunity to take decisive action against climate change. Nations convene, sign agreements, and commit to reducing emissions, protecting ecosystems, and promoting sustainable development. However, despite years of negotiation, representatives’ progress has often been underwhelming.
The gap between rhetoric and action is now painfully clear. Governments often sign pledges but fail to follow through on them. Delays in putting agreements in action call into question the credibility of international climate efforts, eroding public trust. This inherent gap between expectation and reality has become a defining feature of climate diplomacy. Until governments make good on their promises, the crisis will continue to intensify.
It was notable that some of the world's most influential countries did not lead at COP16. The United States – a nation often seen as a key player in global climate negotiations – attended the summit as an observer rather than a direct participant. While the U.S. was not the only passive country, its refusal to take an active role in COP16 sent a troubling message of inaction to the rest of the world. If the U.S. and other major powers refuse to lead, the momentum necessary to drive global climate action will be stymied. Climate change is a collective challenge that requires unified leadership, but without the full participation of major players, it becomes increasingly difficult for smaller nations, especially those with fewer resources, to enact the changes necessary to combat the crisis. Leadership is not just about attending summits – countries must act on the agreements they make, or risk leaving vulnerable nations behind.
Meanwhile, environmental advocates, concerned about biodiversity loss and climate change, remain under threat. In Latin America, these individuals are threatened, violently attacked, and killed as they work to protect ecosystems and promote sustainable practices. Colombia, where COP16 was held, has one of the highest mortality rates for environmental activists. These defenders are critical to maintaining the health of the planet, yet they are tragically under-protected and undervalued. Their safety and security should be a top priority in international climate agreements, as without them, the global fight against climate change will be severely compromised.
Unlike many previous COP conferences, which have often been closed to the general public, COP16 included public forums to foster active participation. The conference made significant strides in engaging the public, providing a platform for those most affected by climate change to voice their concerns and propose solutions.
Despite the state of the world, there is still hope—and this was perhaps the most important message of COP16. Renowned anthropologist and ethnobotanist Wade Davis delivered a message of resilience. Having spent decades studying Indigenous cultures and ecosystems, underscored the urgency of action, particularly for young people who will bear the brunt of climate change. His words struck a chord in Cali, reminding young attendees that while the climate crisis is daunting, they have the power to shape the future.
“As a young person, you need to decide between the good and the bad, and we know what the good is. So we can decide to fight for what’s good and follow its path, because we can’t destroy what’s bad, but we can fight for what’s good.”
Davis challenges the narrative of despair that often accompanies discussions of climate change, urging young people to remain hopeful and to take bold action in defense of the planet.
As COP16 comes to a close, the real test of its success will not be measured in promises, but in actions. Governments must now follow through on their promises, implement policies that align with the urgency of the situation, and protect those who are working to make meaningful change.
The stakes have never been higher. If the world is to avoid the worst impacts of climate change, leaders must act decisively, and young people must pave the way.