CCT provided a one-day capacity building for Egyptian civil society actors. Activists, social entrepreneurs, and staff of Egyptian NGO’s all active in the green ecosystem were given insights into the logistics of UN climate change negotiations, how to prepare and what to expect.

The workshop was a collaboration with the Arab Network for Environment and Development (RAED).

For many Egyptian civil society representatives are attending COP27 for the first time, however for many years there has been a good and reliable network of those working towards climate protection, climate justice and raising awareness on climate change and sustainability. In preparation of COP27 CCT had the chance to bring networks of younger and more senior changemakers and negotiators together and provide valuable experience and explanations. The training sessions and Q&As were held in Arabic – as climate negotiation briefings are rarely available in Arabic. The workshop aimed to ensure that the Egyptian civil society could make the most of their participation at COP27 hosted in their home country.

Participants:

COP delegates from Cairo-based civil society organizations, as well as participants from Arab Network for Environment and Development (RAED) who are accredited delegates to COP27

Content of the workshop:

Basic information around the COP structure and logistics from experienced CSO representatives; opportunity for informal exchange and networking with RAED delegates and field workers from all over Egypt

Working Language:

Arabic

Trainers:

Amr Selem (CCT), Ghada Ahmadein (RAED), Lama EL Hatow (Environmental Specialist), Haneen Shaheen (CAN Board Member), Sherif El Refaey (Youth Council for Climate Change)

The event was organized by CCT and the science and cultural departments of the German Embassy, in collaboration with the central agency for German schools abroad (ZfA), the Goethe-Institut and their join PASCH-initiative (a network of selected private and public schools that teach German as a second language or teach in German). The workshop was prepared and delivered by Hatem Hamdy through ORCAS.

Students came from diverse backgrounds, public and private schools, Cairo, Alexandria, and Sharm El Sheikh. This was a great way to teach diversity, overcoming differences, and the power of a joint cause for a common solution. On October 19 and 20, 27 students participated in the simulated small version of this year’s climate negotiations. They were made familiar with the specific needs and challenges of different countries, each representing and arguing for them in the ensuing negotiations.

Students negotiated in German and Arabic – learning vital language skills, but also how to build bridges and navigate compromises in heated discussions and a critical climate.