Human rights activists protested in Paris against the United Arab Emirates hosting the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 28), scheduled in the Gulf country at the end of this year.

During the protest near the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris, the activists called for a mass boycott of COP 28 in protest against Abu Dhabi’s poor human rights record.

The protesters emphasised that the UAE is not fit to host the international event due to its severe suppression of human rights, freedoms, civil society, direct and egregious involvement in the climate crisis, and failure to protect the environment.

The UAE is a major oil producer and one of the world’s largest emitters of CO2 per capita.

The choice for it to host COP28 has sparked criticism from environmental groups, who warn that the involvement of a major oil exporter could slow progress in the fight against global warming.

Non-government groups, including Human Rights Watch, have also warned that the Gulf State’s restrictions on freedom of expression could hinder the meaningful participation of climate activists.