The extension of tough negotiations at the COP27 world climate conference in Egypt is bringing organizational chaos to the remaining negotiating teams, observers and media representatives. Offices and the scarce food stalls were already dismantled on Saturday. The exhibition pavilions were deserted. Toilets were partially without water. Environment Minister Leonore Gewessler (Greens) had to change premises because the electricity in her office was out.
The conference was supposed to end on Friday night. Negotiations were far from completed on Saturday afternoon. The entire conference in the Egyptian resort of Sharm El Sheikh was overshadowed by problems with the food and water supply of the approximately 35,000 participants. Transport to and from the location was also more than chaotic at peak times.
‘Egyptian presidency won’t win any more awards’
The Deputy Chief of Cabinet of the Ministry of the Environment, Irmi Salzer, tweeted a photo of the delegation office rented by Austria on Saturday afternoon, which was suddenly without power. “The Egyptian Presidency will not win any more awards for this #COP27.”
As the host country, Egypt is responsible for the organization of the COP27 and the catering for the participants. The country, which has been criticized for serious human rights violations, severely limited demonstration opportunities during the two-week conference.
Official complaint from Germany
The German embassy officially lodged a complaint with the hosts after concerns about surveillance by local security authorities. Egyptian guards observed and filmed events at the German pavilion, it said. Previously, events about the human rights situation in the country were held in the German pavilion.
The conference venue is actually under the supervision of the United Nations and UN security officials. Egyptian security guards in civilian clothes were reported to have repeatedly mingled with the crowd and allegedly filmed and photographed activists and media representatives.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
