Climate Action Advocate's Symbolic Walk at COP28 Abdallah AL Dardari, Director, Regional Bureau for Arab States of the United Nations Development Programme, accompanied Michael Haddad, Regional Goodwill Ambassador, during a symbolic walk at COP28 in Dubai. The walk aimed to emphasize the importance of including the voices of persons with disabilities in climate negotiations and actions. The walk commenced near the Expo Urban Farm entrance and concluded at the Women's Pavilion in the Green Zone. Participants were welcomed by UN Assistant Secretary General and UNDP Regional Director for Arab States, Dr. Abdallah Al-Dardari. Urgent Call for Inclusive Climate Conversations Dr. Al Dardari highlighted the foundational role of persons with disabilities in climate negotiations and actions, emphasizing the need for justice and comprehensive climate solutions. The active participation of all segments of society, including persons with disabilities, is crucial for addressing the challenges posed by climate change effectively. The walk garnered significant attention and support from various stakeholders, including prominent personalities, delegates, business leaders, academics, youth, and the media. It also shed light on Michael Haddad's remarkable journey, overcoming paralysis at a young age and defying the odds to walk independently with the aid of an exoskeleton and crutches. AWAKE Walk: A Remarkable Journey to the Arctic Circle Haddad, appointed as a Regional Goodwill Ambassador for Climate Action in 2019, is preparing for his most significant challenge yet—the AWAKE Walk. Scheduled for late 2024 in the Arctic Circle, Haddad aims to walk 100 kilometers to draw attention to the melting arctic ice sheet and urge urgent climate action.
Sabiha Rajpoot 
