Approximately 25,000 people representing parties, academia, research groups, civil society, media , etc are gathered in Hopenhagen, the name given to Copenhagen till December the 19^th to negotiate a future for the next generations. In the words of Mr. Lars Lokke Rasmussen, prime minister of Denmark,  ‘it’s no more men in dark suits sitting in dark rooms’  debating around climate induced issues anymore. Now, along with the people in dark suits one can find youth groups with their innovative ideas; women and gender networks working hard to put their message across; research and academic institutes providing science-based evidence; humanitarian/development organizations narrating stories how CC is affecting people and how the burdens can be shared and reduced; and a vibrant media  constituency making efforts to give a human face to the whole negotiations process.

Collectively, civil society is looking for a FAB DEAL: a deal which is FAIR, AMBITIOUS and  BINDING.

Hopes and sentiments are high, atmosphere is charged and the stage is set. Let’s see how the story would UNFOLD.

I’m here till the end of negotiations and will be following the debate around disasters, adaptation and adaptation fund.

Maira

07 December 2009