Attending COP29 in Azerbaijan was a transformative experience, marking my first time participating in global climate negotiations as both a Youth Delegate and a representative of PUSH Sweden. This unique opportunity allowed me to engage with diverse stakeholders, witness high-level discussions, and contribute to critical dialogues on climate finance, justice, and the intersection of climate action with gender and youth empowerment.
The sheer scale of COP29 was awe-inspiring. Thousands of delegates, activists, policymakers, and experts from across the globe convened under one roof, all driven by a shared urgency to address the climate crisis. As a first-time participant, I was struck by the energy and passion permeating the event. Every conversation, session, and side event reinforced the collective commitment to building a sustainable and inclusive future.
One of the highlights of my journey was participating in high-level climate finance negotiations. Representing the Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Pakistan, I worked closely with delegations from Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kenya, and other nations to advocate for accessible and equitable climate finance for vulnerable communities. It was an honour to support Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s call for global solidarity and financial commitments aimed at achieving climate justice.
Equally impactful were discussions on the pivotal roles of women and youth in driving climate action. Sessions focused on gender-responsive approaches to climate policies emphasized how empowering women can catalyze meaningful change, particularly in frontline communities most affected by the climate crisis. As a Youth Delegate, I was inspired by the stories of young leaders worldwide, working tirelessly to champion sustainability and resilience in their communities. Seeing youth voices being amplified on such a significant platform reaffirmed my belief in the transformative power of inclusive
policymaking.
The sessions on “Education as Adaptation and Mitigation” and “Land Degradation and Climate Change” resonated deeply with me. These discussions highlighted the importance of integrating environmental education into climate strategies and underscored the role of sustainable land management in mitigating climate impacts.
Of course, navigating the complexities of COP as a newcomer wasn’t without challenges. The technical jargon, packed schedules, and fast-paced negotiations required adaptability and quick learning. However, these challenges became opportunities for growth, deepening my understanding of the intricacies of international climate policymaking.
My biggest takeaway from COP29 is the critical importance of collaboration and inclusivity. Addressing climate change demands collective action from all sectors and communities, with a particular focus on empowering women and youth as change agents. This experience has reaffirmed my commitment to promoting climate justice and environmental sustainability through evidence-based policies, grassroots advocacy, and gender-inclusive approaches.
I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to attend COP29, represent youth perspectives, and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change. It was a milestone in my journey as an advocate for a resilient and equitable future.
Pirah Altaf – International Delegate from Pakistan at COP29
