Thousands of civil society activists are currently gathered in Baku, Azerbaijan, for the UNFCCC Climate Conference, officially designated as the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29).
While journalists and development theorists often criticise these large-scale events for their massive arrangements and participation, I believe they serve a critical purpose by fostering experience-sharing and collective influence on a pivotal global issue.
There is a deep-seated need for unity, a shared sentiment that we have one mother Earth to protect. I would like to illustrate how I have transitioned from development tourism to genuine development activism.
We must take this matter seriously, as scepticism grows among development theorists; Professor Thea Host, for instance, likens development tourism to a "new smoking."
Many participants at such global forums fail to report back to their home organisations and sponsors, and lack follow-through on advocacy and influencing events within the conference itself.
Nowadays, there are ample opportunities for reporting and sharing insights via social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), and through articles and interviews in print and electronic media. At COAST and EquityBD, we have successfully addressed this issue.
My journey began in 2007 with COP7 in Bali, where I observed and learned about the mechanisms for influence at such events.
By COP8 in Copenhagen, we were registered as an official UNFCCC observer organisation.
This allowed us access to exhibitions, press conferences, and events, all at no cost. Each day, we would engage with government delegations or activist networks like the Climate Action Network (CAN) and the Asia Pacific Movement for Debt and Development (APMDD).
Since Copenhagen and now through to COP29 in Baku, COAST has consistently hosted two press conferences per conference—one at the outset to outline our expectations and one at the conclusion to reflect on outcomes.
We maintain an exhibition stall and organise a seminar or event, initially on climate displacement and now on climate finance.
These initiatives are often in collaboration with other CSOs such as Greenpeace, PDD, PACJA, CAN, CANSA, APMDD, and NRC.
Notably, our advocacy efforts during COP20 in Cancun led to the inclusion of Clause 14(f) on climate migrants, a historic achievement accomplished through tireless work alongside our minister.
Following Doha, I passed the baton to my colleague Aminul, who has continued our work with the same dedication.
This year, Aminul and Hasan are in Baku, with plans for Hasan to lead our activities independently next year. Their activism reports are available on my social media handles.
Through these endeavours, we strive to influence policymakers, develop a critical mass, and amplify our investment in development activism.
Rezaul Karim Chowdhury is the Executive Director of COAST
