Greta Thunberg Criticises COP26 as “A Show of Empty Promises”
Climate activist Greta Thunberg has labelled COP26 a “failure,” accusing global leaders of prioritising business interests over meaningful climate action. Speaking to thousands gathered in Glasgow’s George Square after a march organised by Fridays For Future, Thunberg called the summit a “greenwash festival” and condemned leaders for delivering “empty promises.”
“This is no longer a climate conference,” Thunberg declared. “It’s a celebration of maintaining business as usual—drowning out the voices of those most affected by climate change with greenwashing rhetoric.” She criticised the persistent expansion of fossil fuel projects, including new coal mines and oil licences, despite promises to combat the climate crisis.
Ugandan activist Vanessa Nakate joined Thunberg in highlighting the disproportionate burden faced by the Global South, particularly Africa. “Historically, Africa has contributed just 3% of global emissions, yet we endure some of the worst impacts,” Nakate said, lamenting the erasure of activists from vulnerable regions in global discussions. “How can we achieve climate justice if their voices are excluded?”
Despite frustration, Nakate emphasised the power of grassroots efforts: “No action is too small to matter, and no voice is too insignificant to create change.”
The protest drew an estimated 8,000 participants, many of them schoolchildren defying government warnings against skipping classes. Downing Street criticised the timing of the protests, citing concerns about pandemic-related disruptions to education. However, young activists like 14-year-old Charlie O’Rourke from Glasgow defended their decision. “Leaders need to stop prioritising profit and start listening to what the planet needs,” he said.
UK officials have attempted to channel youth passion into structured initiatives, such as incorporating climate education into curricula and reducing school building emissions. However, activists remain sceptical of these measures, stressing the need for immediate and bold action.
As protests continue, the resounding message from Glasgow is clear: words are no substitute for action. Thunberg urged attendees to hold leaders accountable and to remain hopeful, stating, “Faith in the future will drive us toward the world we imagine—a sustainable one.”
