Sumedha Basu

Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Area of work:

I will be supporting Members of Parliaments from South Asia in understanding the climate negotiation process and meeting the national negotiation teams and other civil society stakeholders from south asia. A key issue in focus is to understand the scope of incorporating regional energy cooperation in national climate strategies and how can that help in bolstering the climate ambitions of South Asian countries.

What are the big issues that COP29 needs to address? What are your hopes for the negotiations?

COP29 must prioritize climate justice in all discussions, particularly those concerning climate finance. Developed nations need to show leadership that conveys both urgency and sincerity. I hope that COP29 can hold underperforming nations accountable, as simple incentives and recognition could be more effective. Additionally, I wish for countries to restore people’s faith in global dialogue and cooperation, regardless of the outcomes of the US elections and the deteriorating state of global diplomacy and international relations.

What’s your message for world leaders at COP29?

It has never been more urgent than now. Build trust and take collective action. The future is looking at you.

Do you have any tips about climate action that you can share?

Organise, campaign, resist, and transform.