COP28 is a crucial test for UAE
The upcoming COP28 climate change conference, set to be hosted by the United Arab Emirates in Dubai, is undeniably a significant event on the global calendar. As nations grapple with the pressing challenges of climate change, the conference offers a platform for collective action and collaboration. However, the choice of the UAE as the host nation has raised several questions, especially given its human rights record and heavy reliance on fossil fuels.
The UAE has long positioned itself as a beacon of progress in the Middle East. Hosting COP28 provides the nation with an opportunity to not only showcase its commitment to tackling climate change but also to address longstanding concerns about its human rights practices.
Last week, UK officials challenged the UAE over free speech guarantees at the upcoming summit. This rare critique follows the UAE's refusal to amend restrictive laws, and properly recognise freedom of expression, following a UN human rights review of the country. While the UAE has made broad promises of upholding free speech, specifics remain unclear. Amnesty International and other rights groups have echoed these concerns, highlighting the global significance of the summit set for 30 November to 12 December.
Human rights organisations have long highlighted human rights violations in the UAE, including the arbitrary detention of political dissidents, limitations on freedom of speech, and the mistreatment of migrant workers. The country continues to hold British and American prisoners such as Ryan Cornelius and Zack Shahin, long after UN findings that those men have been arbitrarily detained and should be immediately released.
As the world's eyes turn to the UAE during the conference, there is a pressing need for the nation to demonstrate a genuine commitment to upholding the principles of human rights.
Recent reports have shed light on the UAE's alignment with Russia, especially in the context of the latter's war against Ukraine. The UAE's abstention from a UN vote condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraine, coupled with its apparent financial support for key transactions aiding the Russian military campaign, is deeply concerning.
Furthermore, Dubai's emergence as a haven for Russian oligarchs targeted by Western sanctions paints a picture of a nation prioritising economic gains over global peace and human rights. Such alliances and actions are bound to raise eyebrows, especially when the UAE is at the centre of the global stage hosting an event as significant as the COP28.
The COP28 conference also presents a critical moment for the UAE to take stock. The international community will also be watching how the UAE addresses concerns about its human rights practices and its alignment with nations that have questionable international actions. The arbitrary detention of individuals, often without fair trial or representation, is a grave concern that the UAE must address.
In the interests of its international reputation if nothing else, the UAE should take immediate steps to release those who have been arbitrarily detained. Such a move would not only be a testament to the UAE's apparent commitment to human rights but would also set a positive tone for the conference.
The COP28 conference is not just about climate change; it's about the values we uphold as an international community. The UAE has a unique opportunity to lead by example, both in terms of its commitment to the environment and its respect for human rights. As a parliamentarian with a firm belief in the essential nature in the rule of law, not only in this country but around the world, I am hopeful that the UAE will rise to the occasion and set a benchmark for other nations to follow.
However, its alignment with nations like Russia and its questionable human rights record cannot be ignored. The world will be watching, and the UAE must act responsibly.
Sir Robert Buckland is the former Conservative MP for South Swindon and a former Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice.
