“If history is any guide, the rich countries of the world will say how concerned they are about the damage their emissions of heat-trapping gases are causing. The poor countries – whose people have done little to contribute to global warming but stand to suffer the most from it because of their vulnerability to rising seas and weather extremes – will point out that this professed concern never seems to translate into sufficient action.

 

“We’re saying to the U.S. and the developed world, ‘You’re responsible for this,’ ” said Ronald Jean Jumeau – the ambassador to the United Nations for the Indian Ocean island nation of Seychelles, off the coast of Africa – in a preview of his country’s remarks. “Don’t tell us you can’t cut emissions, you can’t give money, while you bask in the rich way of life you enjoy now. You know your emissions are damaging us. Help us out here.”