COP28 2023: Twelve-Year-Old Manipur Climate Activists Storm Over Fossil Fuel Protest; Imprisoned for More Than Thirty Minutes

A 12-year-old Manipur native named Licypriya Kangujam is a climate activist who made headlines during the United Nations Climate Conference 2023 (COP28) in Dubai. She sprinted onto the stage and hoisted a banner that said, “End fossil fuels.” Preserve both the earth and our future.

Relentless, the adolescent protested against the use of fossil fuels with a succinct but powerful message. The crowd applauded her for taking a strong stand on environmental problems, indicating a common concern. She was taken off the platform by security personnel, so her stay there was brief. Licypriya’s excitement was praised by COP28 Director-General Ambassador Majid Al Suwaidi, who urged the audience to give her another round of applause.

Kangujam Was Held For More Than Half An Hour

Licypriya shared her story on social media, stating that she was held for more than 30 minutes after the demonstration. In a message on her X (formerly Twitter) account, she expressed her indignation and made it clear that her sole transgression was supporting the phase-out of fossil fuels, which are the main cause of the global catastrophe. Potential infringement of children’s rights on UN property was brought to light by her appeal for assistance and criticism of the UN’s handling of her protest.

Licypriya questioned the removal of her badge in a different post, arguing that opposing fossil fuels shouldn’t be met with such harsh measures. She asserted her right to express her concerns in this international arena, arguing that her activities were consistent with UN values.

Global Conversation at COP28

At COP28, the phase-out of fossil fuels became a hot topic of conversation, with approximately 200 nations participating in talks to address this important problem. Licypriya’s speech brought a young voice to the conversation at this year’s climate summit in Dubai, which was attended by 60,000 delegates from 190 countries. Her engagement went beyond national borders as a Special Envoy of Timor Leste, highlighting the worldwide connection of climate challenges.