National Environmental Protection Agency Statement pertaining 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference

28^th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP28)

The Secretariat of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) convenes the annual Conference of Parties (COP) to address the challenges posed by climate change at the international level, with the goal of mitigating the concentration of greenhouse gases in the Earth's atmosphere and making critical decisions. The conference offers an ideal platform for countries, particularly those most affected and vulnerable developing nations, to articulate their concerns and the threats they face due to climate change. Furthermore, it serves as a means for these countries to access financial and technical resources to address the impacts of climate change.

Regrettably, Afghanistan's delegates have not been extended an invitation to attend the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference scheduled to take place from November 30 to December 12, 2023, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Despite the National Environmental Protection Agency's comprehensive efforts to advocate for Afghanistan's stance and address the urgent needs of the Afghanistan's climate-affected population, expedite the financial aid process from global climate finance mechanisms, submit Afghanistan's National Determined Contribution (NDC) in accordance with the Paris Agreement, and revive halted environmental projects for presentation at the Conference of Parties (COP), Afghan delegates, regrettably, have not received invitations to the conference, purportedly due to political factors.

Presently, global climate change and the associated phenomenon of global warming represent significant environmental challenges on a global scale, with discernible ramifications for Afghanistan. The rising temperatures, thawing of natural glaciers, global sea levels rise, recurrent droughts, occurrences of natural calamities, and heightened prevalence of human and animal disease are indicative of these consequences. Despite Afghanistan's minimal contribution of 0.08% to the global greenhouse gas emissions, in comparison to other nations, it remains one of the most susceptible countries to the deleterious impacts of climate change, being ranked sixth in terms of vulnerability.

The susceptibility of Afghanistan to the effects of climate change is poised to worsen the economic and social circumstances of its populace. The occurrence of severe floods and unseasonal rains in Afghanistan has led to significant financial and human tolls. This state of affairs serves as a testament to the potential negative repercussions of the climate crisis, potentially giving rise to a humanitarian emergency.

As posited by the United Nations, a mere reliance on humanitarian aid without effective measures to mitigate emissions and adapt to climate change is a short-term solution that is bound to remain insufficient. Therefore, addressing climate change demands persistent resources and efforts to forestall crises that arise from its impact. It is crucial to note that climate change is not an issue exclusive to Afghanistan but rather a global and regional concern that requires concerted and pragmatic actions by all nations. Failure to prioritize and implement practical measures in this regard could expose the entire region and the world to serious threats that may be irremediable.

Exclusion of the representatives of Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan in this international conferences poses significant barriers and constraints to Afghanistan's access to financial mechanisms. Furthermore, Suspension of climate change adaptation projects in the country represents a grave injustice against the Afghan people, who should not be deprived of their right to such initiatives.

Despite its limited resources, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan is dedicated to mitigating the impacts of climate change in pursuit of its predetermined objectives. We anticipate unwavering support from our international partners in addressing this global phenomenon in Afghanistan and expect the facilitation of Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan’s representatives in international forums and conferences without the influence of political factors.

National Environmental Protection Agency