Some participants at the COP29 climate conference in Baku are giving it high marks for organization and appearance. The proceedings themselves, however, have been tumultuous. Several attendees have noted the presence of a legion of omnipresent young volunteers who are “polite, smiling, and always ready to help.” The “pristine cleanliness” of the venue, another adds, “feels a bit excessive.” The biggest hassle, some say, is connected to getting to and from the venue, which is sealed behind a vast security cordon.…
