On Sunday, the Taliban, now the ruling entity in Afghanistan, called for its representatives to be included in future United Nations global climate talks after they attended COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. This marked a significant moment for the group, as it was their first participation in such discussions since seizing power in a violent coup in August 2021. Previously, the Taliban faced rejection from the past two COP meetings held in Egypt and the UAE. Their recent engagement at COP29 represented a major step towards international participation, prompting the Taliban to vocalize their desire for ongoing inclusion in these critical global discussions regarding climate action.
Matiul Haq Khalis, the director general of Afghanistan’s National Environmental Protection Agency, articulated the Taliban’s stance during a press conference. He emphasized that Afghanistan’s attendance at COP29 was a “big achievement,” underlining the importance of sharing the challenges and needs faced by the Afghan people on the world stage. In his address, he highlighted that the Afghan delegation managed to secure meetings with representatives from various nations and organizations, which suggests a willingness to engage in dialogue and cooperation on climate-related issues with the international community.
The Taliban has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing climate change, alongside claiming an “indispensable role” on the international scene that extends beyond environmental issues. They have expressed a desire to access the $100 billion per year in climate finance pledged to support developing nations, aimed at combating climate change through 2025. The call for inclusion in climate talks reflects their strategy to leverage international platforms for recognition and support while simultaneously attempting to rebuild Afghanistan’s global image post-takeover.
Despite the Taliban’s depiction of its role in addressing environmental challenges, criticism remains regarding their adherence to human rights, particularly the rights of women and children. Various organizations and activists have pointed out the stark contrast between the Taliban’s promises and its brutal enforcement of sharia law since 2021. This contradiction raises questions about the Taliban’s sincerity in participating in global climate talks, as the group’s governance has been marked by severe restrictions on civil liberties and oppression, particularly against women.
The relationship between climate change and the Taliban’s rise to power has been a subject of debate, with some media outlets suggesting that environmental factors have exacerbated socio-economic hardships in Afghanistan. Reports have indicated that climate-induced challenges, such as droughts and poverty, may have driven farmers toward the Taliban as a means of survival. This complex interconnection between climate issues and political instability poses significant questions for the international community regarding the role of climate change in fostering extremism.
In conclusion, while the Taliban’s call for participation in international climate discussions may represent a strategic attempt to gain legitimacy and access financial resources, it is essential for the global community to critically assess the implications of their inclusion. The Taliban’s past actions and ongoing governance raise significant concerns about their commitment to the values that underpin global climate initiatives, including human rights and social justice. As the world grapples with climate change, the involvement of all actors, including contentious ones like the Taliban, must be approached with caution, ensuring that efforts to combat climate change do not come at the expense of fundamental human rights.
