At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, the global community anticipated a recession as a result of industry closures. However, COVID-19 has only been one of many factors contributing to a wider economic slowdown of late. Thailand and the Philippines have both recorded rising inflation, but are on divergent paths in managing it for their populations.

The Egyptian military dictatorship hosting this year's COP poses a political challenge for all participants. But upon close inspection, reference points for demanding human rights emerge.