So begins the first line of a statement from our friends at the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance. An hour ago, news came out that French President Sarkozy and Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi reached a very weak agreement "on behalf of Africa." This agreement fell in complete contradiction to the strong positions of the African countries here in Copenhagen, and is quickly being denounced.
African countries have been some of the most vocal advocates for a 350 ppm agreement here in Copenhagen. They are absolutely on the front lines of climate catastrophe, and know their very survival is jeopardized as the planet continues to warm and developed country politicians fail to act. Outside the policy arena, hundreds of events took place throughout the continent on October 24. You can see some of the most incredible photos here.
It’s all the more disheartening to see Ethiopia taking part in this negotiation with France, as the largest October 24 event in the entire world took place in Addis Ababa. The two young women who organized the event, Tinebeb and Liyunesh, pictured here, came to Copenhagen and have been meeting with their delegations, briefing them on 350, and sharing tips and tools from the organizing work they have done.
We will keep you posted as to how this develops: we are very glad the 350 Africa movement is so strong and fighting back hard!