JSW Law participates in the COP28.

JSW Law is participating in the Twenty-Eighth Conference of the Parties (COP28) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), with four students: Lekzang Pakila Lhaki and Tenzin Dorji from the Class of 2024, Pema Choki from the Class of 2025, and Tshering Wangchuk from the College of Natural Resources (participating under the MoU signed between JSW Law and CNR). The students are accompanied by three faculty members: Dema Lham, Assistant Professor; Sonam Tshering, Assistant Professor; and Tshering Dolkar, Lecturer.

Yesterday, Lekzang Pakila Lhaki addressed youth expectations at the opening of the Inaugural Bhutan Pavilion as one of the keynote speakers representing youth. She expressed concern about melting glaciers, erratic weather, and threats to water resources directly impacting people’s livelihoods. Emphasising the fragility of ecosystems and the consequences of global warming, she echoed the COP28 President’s message that the current path will not lead to meeting climate goals on time. Concerns were raised about the future of biodiversity and communities’ ability to adapt. Lekzang called for youth to actively participate in creating a sustainable future, asserting that this generation can turn the tide, even if they cannot entirely reverse climate change. She conveyed optimism for a future of environmental harmony, and the Bhutan Pavilion symbolises hope, sustainable practices, mindful choices, and the achievable goal of balancing happiness and sustainability.

This morning, the four students jointly conducted an hour-long session on “Tales From the Little Dragons.” During the session, the students narrated their stories and accounts, not only as witnesses to change but also as catalysts for a sustainable future. The group discussed the challenges faced by the global community due to environmental degradation, providing firsthand insights into the tangible impacts experienced by their communities. Each storyteller vividly portrayed the impact of climate change on their world, covering shifts in weather patterns and alterations to landscapes from the time of their forefathers to the present day. The students also transcended personal anecdotes to delve into the innovative and community-driven solutions these youths have championed in response to the climate crisis.

Over the next two weeks at COP28, the faculty and students will address various climate change law issues, attend meetings with other delegates from Bhutan, moderate sessions, coordinate numerous other forums at the Bhutan Pavilion, establish meaningful networks, and learn about climate change and the COP. The participation of faculty and students at the COP28 is generously funded by the Karuna Foundation.