A 12-year-old climate activist from Manipur, Licypriya Kangujam, staged a bold protest against fossil fuels at UN Climate Conference (COP28) in Dubai. Pics/ AFP & X
Licypriya's sudden appearance and plea for ending fossil fuel usage garnered immediate attention, leading to a round of applause from the audience, highlighting the resonance of her message with the attendees.
The COP28 Director-General Ambassador Majid Al Suwaidi commended Licypriya's fervor and encouraged the audience to acknowledge her efforts.
However, after her protest, Licypriya was reportedly detained for over 30 minutes and subsequently expelled from COP28; she was removed from the conference.
Licypriya, undeterred by her expulsion, took to social media to express her stance, emphasising that her only "crime" was advocating for the phase-out of fossil fuels, addressing the gravity of the climate crisis attributed to this cause.
In her social media posts, Licypriya raised concerns about her detainment and expulsion, labeling it a violation of child rights within the UN premises, asserting her entitlement to voice her concerns on such a crucial issue.
The incident further accentuated the ongoing global debate on phasing out fossil fuels at COP28, where representatives from nearly 200 countries are actively engaged in resolving this critical issue.
With around 60,000 delegates representing 190 nations, the magnitude of this year's climate conference in Dubai amplifies the significance of Licypriya's activism and the urgency surrounding the discussion on climate change and fossil fuel usage.
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