Motion
“This House believes that the carbon tax imposed on GCC
countries is not about climate justice, but about limiting Gulf
economic power and influence."

Context
During the GCC consultative meeting in Doha, HE Sheikh
Khalifa bin Jassim Al Thani, Chairman of Qatar Chamber,
emphasized the risks of a carbon tax on Gulf economies, which
rely heavily on oil, gas, and hydrocarbon industries. He noted
that such a tax, especially on exports like aluminium,
petrochemicals, and steel, could reduce the region’s
competitive advantage. With the European Union planning to
enforce this tax in 2026, the measure raises questions of
fairness, sovereignty, and whether it truly addresses climate
goals, or strategically weakens Gulf economic strength.
Purpose of Debate
To engage students in examining whether the carbon tax is a
genuine climate policy or a geopolitical tool, and to explore its
economic, social, and environmental implications for the GCC.