Disputed Edits Disrupt Summit Proceedings
Saudi Arabia is under scrutiny for alleged changes made to a key negotiating document at Cop29, sparking concerns over the transparency and fairness of the climate summit. Such documents are typically distributed as non-editable PDFs to ensure equal access and prevent tampering. Experts warn that allowing one party to alter these texts could undermine trust and compromise the negotiation process.
The controversy centers on Basel Alsubaity, a Saudi official from the Ministry of Energy, who reportedly made edits to the just transition work program (JTWP). This initiative aims to help nations transition to sustainable energy systems while addressing economic and social disparities. However, the revised text was circulated without giving other nations an opportunity to review or propose changes.
Saudi Arabia’s Role Faces Renewed Scrutiny
This incident has reignited criticism of Saudi Arabia’s influence in global climate talks. The country has long been accused of obstructing progress, with a 2023 report by the Climate Social Science Network highlighting its consistent efforts to delay climate action and protect its oil and gas sector. Despite facing its own environmental challenges, such as rising temperatures and shrinking water reserves, Saudi Arabia continues to prioritize its fossil fuel interests.
Contentious Edits Spark Outrage
On Saturday, the Azerbaijani presidency circulated an updated version of the JTWP document, which included tracked changes—a deviation from standard practice. Two edits attributed to Alsubaity removed a clause encouraging nations to align their energy transition strategies with the outcomes of the global stocktake and the objectives of the Paris Agreement.
These edits have drawn widespread condemnation. Catherine Abreu, director of the International Climate Politics Hub, criticized the departure from established protocols, arguing that such actions erode trust in the negotiations. She pointed out that allowing a country with a history of resisting renewable energy transitions to modify official documents undermines the integrity of the summit.
Frustration Grows Among Vulnerable Nations
The revelations have deepened tensions at Cop29, particularly among countries already dissatisfied with the summit’s direction. On Saturday, the Alliance of Small Island States and the Least Developed Countries walked out of a crucial meeting, claiming they had been excluded from key discussions. These groups, representing some of the most vulnerable nations to climate change, expressed strong dissatisfaction with the presidency’s handling of the talks.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock also criticized the growing influence of fossil fuel-dependent nations, calling it a “geopolitical power play” that puts the interests of wealthy polluters ahead of smaller, climate-vulnerable nations. She reaffirmed her commitment to supporting these nations against the dominance of oil-producing countries.
Demands for Transparency and Accountability
The Cop29 presidency, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, and Saudi Arabia’s delegation have yet to respond to the allegations. Meanwhile, climate advocates are calling for stricter oversight to ensure fairness and accountability in the negotiation process. Without swift corrective action, many fear the controversy could erode trust in the summit and hinder global efforts to address climate change.