“Climate change is a global challenge that demands a collective response. Our actions today will shape the future of our planet. It is not enough to speak; we must act, and we must act now.”
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Her Excellency, Mia Mottley
Prime Minister of Barbados
In the dynamic arena of global leadership, few figures shine as brightly as Mia Mottley, the trailblazing Prime Minister of Barbados. Her compelling vision and resolute commitment to climate action took centre stage at COP28, leaving an indelible mark on the discourse surrounding international financial systems and climate justice. As the world grapples with the urgent challenges of climate change, Mottley’s distinct voice resonated as a beacon of hope, emphasizing the crucial role of developing nations in the fight against climate change.
The United Nations climate summit, COP28, under the presidency of the head of the United Arab Emirates’ largest oil company, witnessed Mottley’s impactful presence and unwavering dedication to catalyzing a radical shift in addressing climate finance. Her impassioned plea for substantive actions over symbolic pledges reverberated through the summit, urging nations to move beyond rhetoric and embrace concrete measures to combat the looming climate crisis.
At the core of Mottley’s message was a groundbreaking proposal: the introduction of taxes to fortify climate funding. Her visionary call for a global 0.1% tax on financial services, potentially generating $420 billion, and a 5% tax on global oil and gas profits, estimated at $200 billion, illuminated the vast financial resources that could be harnessed for climate initiatives. This pragmatic yet innovative approach signals a paradigm shift in addressing climate finance, demonstrating Mottley’s prowess in restructuring global financial systems to align with climate imperatives.
Moreover, Mottley’s collaborative efforts with global leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, showcased her commitment to forging alliances for effective climate action. The Bridgetown agenda, championed by Mottley, emerged as a blueprint for substantive climate-related actions, earning recognition as a potential model for future global endeavours.
Addressing the critical intersection of climate change and health, Mottley highlighted the escalating risks of pandemics due to environmental upheavals. Her emphasis on the interconnectedness of global challenges and the imperative for holistic solutions underscores the need for cooperative global governance and institutional collaboration, departing from conventional approaches.
As the first woman to hold the office of Prime Minister in Barbados, Mottley transcends gender barriers, inspiring a generation of leaders. Her unwavering dedication to climate justice, financial reform, and international cooperation stands as a testament to the pivotal role female politicians play in shaping a sustainable and equitable future. Mottley’s leadership encompasses tangible initiatives supporting mitigation and adaptation actions, especially for less affluent nations facing the monumental costs of climate change. Her relentless pursuit of financial restructuring to facilitate climate resilience and the transformation of global economies is a testament to her visionary leadership.
In a world grappling with the existential threat of climate change, Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s resolute leadership at COP28 serves as an embodiment of hope—a call to action for collective efforts and transformative change to safeguard our planet and its inhabitants for generations to come.
“In the face of climate change, we must act collectively. Let us unite in the pursuit of a sustainable future. Each decision we make today determines the legacy we leave for generations to come. It is time for transformative change—let our actions speak louder than words.”
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Her Excellency, Mia Mottley
Prime Minister of Barbados
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