Journalism's Crucial Role in the Climate Crisis Takes Center Stage at COP28

Climate Narratives: The Pulitzer Center’s Participation at COP28

Since the first international conference to discuss global warming three decades ago, the discussion on climate has gone through a transformation. It is increasingly acknowledged for what it is, a human rights crisis. At the same time, too many people suffering the consequences are still ignored. 

More than 80,000 people around the world participated in the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 28) in Dubai. The Pulitzer Center was there in force, with six COP28 side events in partnership with our journalist grantees across oceans, rainforests, and climate and labor reporting. 

In our discussions, we remembered that climatic disruption is also a narrative question. Journalism and engagement can help society better decode different climate narratives and learn how to differentiate them; in particular those that claim to act for the planet and its people, but don’t lead to transformative policies or to real accountability. 

Andreas Bjelland Eriksen, the Norwegian minister of climate and environment, spoke at one of the events, highlighting our role: “I feel reassured that the Pulitzer model of cross-country and cross-continent collaboration contributes to mitigating the risk of those on the front line. We need your journalistic eyes and ears to investigate and expose. Go tell your stories and make the public sphere a safer place.” 

Our presence at COP highlights our commitment to support journalism, education, and engagement—powerful tools in confronting the emergencies and challenges of the hotter world we face. 

Best, 

IMPACT

The Pulitzer Center-supported project State of Change: Natural Solutions was nominated for a Midsouth Emmy Award in the Documentary Topical category. Winners will be announced in February. 

The PBS North Carolina project brings a personal perspective to climate change, explaining the science behind landscape changes and their impact on people. The work highlights the resilience of coastal communities and solutions.

This message first appeared in the December 15, 2023, edition of the Pulitzer Center's weekly newsletter. Subscribe today.

Click here to read the full newsletter.