Final plenary at Cop28, 13 December 2023. (Geneva Solutions/Paula Dupraz-Dobias)Final plenary at Cop28, 13 December 2023. (Geneva Solutions/Paula Dupraz-Dobias)

⭐ Amber light or North Star? Cop28 agrees on ‘transition away’ from fossil fuels. A final compromise decision at the climate talks in Dubai was gaveled on Wednesday, leaving some dismayed, while others say it contains a clear roadmap for work ahead on climate action.

🤔 After 75 years, what is the UN human rights system’s theory of change? Between clashing world views of the purpose of a human rights system 75 years in the making, the answer as to how to effect real change lies somewhere in the middle, writes Marc Limon, executive director of the Universal Rights Group.

🧳 ‘Catastrophe’ in Gaza Strip threatens further displacement in Middle East, warns UNHCR chief. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has warned that the “catastrophe” unfolding in Gaza threatens to cause further displacement in the Middle East and that a ceasefire was “the only way out” of the crisis.

💸 Withdrawal in Swiss contribution puts essential Unrwa operations in danger, writes Philippe Lazzarini, chief of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, after the lower house of the federal assembly decided to cut the 20 million CHF in aid to the organisation.

🤝 Cop28 adaptation accord blasted as 'devoid of actionable commitments'. Poor countries said funding was lacking from the framework agreed on Wednesday, which is meant to help countries come up with adaptation plans.

🚑 WHO protests after patient dies on rescue mission held up by Israeli troops. The UN health agency criticised Israel for detaining a medical rescue convoy in Gaza, saying the delay led to the death of one patient during evacuation and the abuse of a Red Crescent staff member. Reuters