In recent years, climate activism has risen to a position of prominence on the world stage, thereby encouraging people from every region of the world to speak out and demand meaningful climate action from their governments and industry leaders. Despite the international nature of this movement, climate activism in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region does not receive the same intensity of media coverage as similar movements in Europe and North America. Furthermore, economic crises, war, quasi-state systems and authoritarian governance in the region have historically inhibited public protest and civil society activism. What does this unique set of circumstances mean for the state of climate activism in the region? What unique opportunities exist for MENA climate activists and how can these be capitalized on to further the cause of climate justice?

Speakers:

Nisreen Elsaim
Chair, UN Secretary General's Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change
 
Mohamed Elshikhi
Director, Libya Youth Council for Climate Change
 
Aziza Moneer
Fulbright Scholar, New Hampshire University
 
Hafsa Halawa
Non-resident Scholar, Middle East Institute

Neeshad Shafi, moderator
Executive Director, Arab Youth Climate Movement Qatar