Philip Hafstad -Copenhagen Concluding Blog

Philip Hafstad

A complete failure for humanity? A death penalty for millions of people?

This is how many NGOs as well as national governments express their feelings after the failed negotiations here in Copenhagen. The discussions have been intense these last days and finally all countries agreed to a very weak paper, far away from something that the earth really needs. The paper that has been signed does not mention any targets in terms of numbers, and experts estimate that the signed paper will increase the Earth’s temperature to 3 degrees Celsius, a big difference from the 2 degrees target. United States and China has not been willing to compromise their stance towards the climate change issue and many are now blaming these two polluting giants as the major block from a more substantial paper here in Copenhagen.

We are of course very disappointed that these historical negotiations did not lead to any legally binding commitment and as youth, we cannot be anything else than worried for our future. During our time in Copenhagen we have learnt that negotiations in the UN is not simple, and the process that took place here in Copenhagen is slow and inefficient.

On the positive side, we have had a very interesting time in Copenhagen. Although we were restricted from the negotiations at the Bella Center during the last days we have meet with many interesting people, especially other youth and students from all over the world. We have made progress and connections with youth from Australia, United States, Europe and Asia, we have created a mutual awareness that we together as youth will suffer from the consequences of this week’s failed negotiations. Even though we are not satisfied with the outcome from the negotiations, we are very happy that we have created such a network around the globe with other youth and we know that at least we stand united.

During the time here in Copenhagen we have listened to leaders such as Al Gore, Hugo Chavez and Desmond Tutu, we have been inspired by some nations’ commitment to tackle climate change and have been disappointed by others that have failed us. We have listened to inspiring talks and have become more aware about climate change. Now we hope that we can use our knowledge and contacts to continue to spread awareness about tackling climate change and how we can act together for fighting for peoples’ survival.