Conflict at Canadian mines in Peru highlights empty promises of climate talks
Rosa Sara Huaman, a Kañaris leader, speaks at the Inter-American Commission of Human Rights. (Photo: Daniel Cima / Straight.com)
PERU ROLLED OUT the green carpet this week for the Conference of the Parties (COP 20), the United Nations climate change talks, amidst harsh criticisms from indigenous leaders and activists who say the government is far from eco-friendly.
The South American nation has spent US$54 million to host the 12-day forum, which runs from December 1 to 12, with leaders from 195 countries and more than 10,000 delegates.
Until the perpetrators of environmental destruction are brought to task, summits like Lima’s COP 20 are no more than fancy speeches and photo ops. Our planet’s survival depends upon more than empty promises.
