Kings, Billionaires, Key Leaders: All the Big Names Attending COP28

The upcoming COP28 climate summit is poised to unite a diverse array of influential figures, including politicians, business executives, and activists. UAE's COP28 aims to strategize global efforts in combating climate change.

Key Attendees

Sultan al-Jaber, President-designate in charge of COP28

The appointment of the CEO of the UAE's national oil company, Sultan al-Jaber, as the COP28's president has been met with mixed opinions. While some critique this choice, others see it as an opportunity for change. Al-Jaber aims to drive a focus on eliminating methane emissions and aligning with net-zero goals by 2050 on COP28.

King Charles III, royal environmental advocate

The United Kingdom's environmental advocate, King Charles III, has long been an advocate for sustainability. Attending his first COP as monarch, he's scheduled to deliver the opening address on COP28 and engage in discussions with regional leaders, emphasizing the need for climate action despite holding no substantial political power.

John Kerry, US climate envoy and diplomatic force

With extensive experience in climate diplomacy, John Kerry's role at COP28 revolves around important relationships, particularly with al-Jaber and China's Xie Zhenhua. His efforts in bridging discussions between major nations like the US and China have set an early positive tone for the summit.

Simon Stiell, UN climate chief

Taking control of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change last year, Simon Stiell's role on COP28 involves navigating the interests of nearly 200 nations. His experience in governmental affairs aids in translating climate pledges into actionable steps while maintaining a balance among diverse global viewpoints.

Madeleine Diouf Sarr, advocate for vulnerable nations

As chair of the group representing the world's least-developed countries, Madeleine Diouf Sarr brings attention to the unequal impacts of climate change. Her focus on COP28 lies in securing clear targets for aiding vulnerable nations in adapting to climate challenges.

Pope Francis, spiritual voice for climate action

For the first time, Pope Francis brings his influential voice to COP28. A longtime advocate for the environment, he intends to deliver messages on COP28 calling for ethical limits on economic development and to reiterate the moral imperative for climate action.

Pedro Luis Pedroso Cuesta, representing the G77 + China

Leading the largest negotiating league at COP28, Pedroso represents the G77 + China, advocating for collective interests. His focus on COP28 centers on maintaining unity among developing nations and coordinating their stance on climate finance.

Ruslan Edelgeriyev, Putin’s climate adviser amidst geopolitical tensions

Amidst geopolitical tensions, Russia's climate policy under Vladimir Putin's adviser, Ruslan Edelgeriyev, faces scrutiny. As a key figure in keeping climate action alive within Russia, his role at COP28 will be pivotal.

Xie Zhenhua, China’s diplomatic veteran

China's seasoned climate envoy, Xie Zhenhua, brings both opportunities and challenges to COP28. With China's immense influence in the renewable energy sector, his negotiations with counterparts are crucial for the COP28's success.

Bill Gates, philanthropist and business leader

Bill Gates has dual roles in COP28: advocating for the world's vulnerable populations and representing Breakthrough Energy Ventures. His presence on COP28 underscores the convergence of climate action and global business interests.

Vanessa Nakate, rising climate activist

Alongside world leaders, the rise of climate activists like Vanessa Nakate amplifies the urgency for concrete actions on COP28. Nakate advocates for decisive measures, challenging discussions that sidetrack from a fossil fuel phase-out.

Khalid al-Mehaid, Saudi chief negotiator defending fossil fuels

Saudi Arabia's chief negotiator, Khalid al-Mehaid, advocates for technological solutions over an immediate fossil fuel phase-out, emphasizing investments in carbon capture.

Wopke Hoekstra and Teresa Ribera, EU delegates with contrasting roles

The EU's new climate action commissioner, Wopke Hoekstra, and Spain's ecological transition minister, Teresa Ribera, represent varied perspectives within COP28. Hoekstra's relative inexperience contrasts with Ribera's seasoned negotiation skills.

Kate Hampton, influential backroom operator

Chairing the European Climate Foundation, Kate Hampton's network plays a crucial role behind the scenes on COP28, holding connections instrumental in influencing key figures.

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, advocate for the Amazon

Brazil's President Lula brings a powerful voice to COP28, emphasizing the need to balance economic growth with conservation efforts in the Amazon.

Mohamed Nasr, championing climate finance

Egypt's climate negotiator, Mohamed Nasr, pushes for rich nations to fulfill commitments on climate finance, particularly highlighting the challenges faced by developing countries.

Mia Mottley, proponent for climate equity

Barbados' Prime Minister Mottley champions a more equitable global financial system to support countries most affected by climate change.

Jennifer Morgan, German climate envoy navigating political differences

Germany's climate envoy, Jennifer Morgan, navigates internal divisions within the German government to push for faster emissions

COP28, anticipated to host over 70,000 delegates, presents a diverse assembly of influential figures advocating for climate action, each bringing their unique perspectives and influence to the crucial discussions in Dubai’s Expo City.