United Nations Radio

Perspective is a monthly programme that presents an in-depth look at some of the views behind the headlines.

Ban Ki-moon in Copenhagen

The eyes of the world were on Copenhagen, Denmark as the UN Climate Change Conference opened its high-level segment on December 15th.

After two years of efforts to get world leaders to agree on a post-Kyoto climate treaty, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon warned them that failure is not an option.

Climate witnesses from Pacific islands and Africa gave their testimony of the devastating effects of climated change on their lives.

Long lines to enter Bella Centre

The great number of registered participants overwhelmed the conference venue, leading to delays and shutdowns.

The negotiations also stalled. Finally, African leaders reached an agreement with the European Union and the US for $100 billion in funds to help developing countries adapt to the effects of climate change.

But late into the last day of the conference there was no agreement on the target for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Demonstrators at conference site

Industrialized countries proposed cuts that would limit temperature rises to 2 degrees Celsius, while the most affected developing countries insisted on 1.5 degrees.

Everyone looked to the two largest emitters: the US and China to do more.

Duration: 18'06"
Producer: Bissera Kostova