Protester onstage at the Global Climate Action High-Level Event
(COP28/Anthony Fleyhan)
Licypriya Kangujam, a fiery 12-year-old climate activist from India, was forcibly removed from the high-level COP28 meeting in Dubai after a spontaneous protest demanding immediate action on fossil fuels.
Angered by the lack of progress towards phasing out fossil fuels, Kangujam took the podium by surprise. Shouting “Leaders lie, people die…act now…,” she received both applause and swift escort by UN security.
Despite Ambassador Majid Al Suwaidi’s praise for young activists, Kangujam’s delegate badge was revoked, barring her from further participation. Unfazed, Kangujam condemned the move as a violation of child rights and affirmed her commitment to giving voice to the children suffering from climate change.
In an interview, Kangujam expressed outrage over the confiscation of her badges and the threat of blacklisting her from future COPs. “I was simply voicing the concerns of countless children who are victims of climate change,” she stated, standing outside the conference gates. “Continued reliance on fossil fuels will endanger millions of lives.”
Kangujam’s passion for climate action began at a young age. Having witnessed firsthand the devastating consequences of climate change in Manipur, Odisha and Delhi, she became determined to make a difference. Inspired by her experiences with dwindling biodiversity, extreme weather events and air pollution, she founded the “Child Movement” and started campaigning for fossil fuel divestment at the age of six.
Despite the setback, Kangujam and her mother remain hopeful that the UN will reconsider their actions and return their badges. Kangujam’s bold protest serves as a stark reminder of the urgency to address climate change and the importance of amplifying young voices demanding action.
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