PERSPECTIVE ON CLIMATE TALKS

Interesting process in Poznan
By Boris Gabrielyan

During last 4 days of UNFCCC, we have visited more than 10 meetings of side events and plenary sessions regarding different aspects of climate change problem. As a result of attending these meeting, it is becoming more clear the aims, objectives and approaches of the conference. As it is, the first Kyoto protocol is ending and there is necessity to work out new concepts and approaches for a second protocol, which will hopefully come into force in 2012. There is need to engage more countries to reduce their emissions, and mostly it relates to developed countries, which don’t seem to have any intention to reduce their CO2 emissions. There is impression that most of the countries try to avoid their responsibilities, create different causes, saying that to obey their obligations they need additional financial means from developed countries. For example, during of one of the plenary meetings, Russia has suggested to address individual approach to each country, taking into account physical – geographical features. In my opinion, it is correct, but this should not be the only principle without suggesting real measures to reduce own CO2 emissions, and relaying to the hope to receive help from developed countries.

Recently we had opportunity to meet government officials from Armenia and to discuss Armenian position on climate change at this stage. As it was mentioned by the head of the delegation, Mr. Aaram Gabrielyan, Armenia is suggesting new approach of problem solution - obliging countries to reduce the growth in temperatures, but not the economy growth.

During the discussion with Armenian government officials proposed to conduct a meeting of CIS governments with CIS civil society groups to talk over the possibilities of CSO engagement in decision-making process and negotiations on climate changes problems, and to discuss on more close interaction between governments and NGOs on this issue. Frankly saying, this kind of initiative was very surprising. Because, usually they avoid this kind of cooperation and release important and real information, but may be now is the time for more close engagement of CSOs and they need public awareness on this issue.

On December 5, we had a meeting with Oxfam GB representative – Kate Geary, Policy adviser – climate change/private sector and she explained the process happening in the conference and the problems at this stage of the UNFCCC and coming meeting in Copenhagen , where the second protocol will be approved or amendments will be done in the existing protocol.

Meeting on new technology transfer was very interesting on December 6, where we heard presentations prepared by Australia, Bangladesh, EU, etc. Mainly, the problems of competence and problem of new technology transfer between developed countries and developing countries have been raised. In the same day, the meeting with CIS government representatives was organized, the CACAM (Central Asia, Caucasus, Albania, Moldova) countries position and their role was discussed.

Photo by Avilash Roul.