WCC news: WCC calls for debt justice and wealth taxation at the UN Social Forum

At the recent United Nations Social Forum, the World Council of Churches (WCC) led global calls for a renewed economic system that prioritizes human rights and environmental sustainability. Held from 31 October to 1 November at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, the forum brought together representatives from governments, civil society, and academe to discuss the impact of finance on development and human rights.  Photo: Marcelo Schneider/WCC 06 November 2024 Representing the WCC, Athena Peralta, director of the WCC Commission on Climate Justice and Sustainable Development, emphasized the urgent need for an inclusive debt restructuring framework and fair wealth taxes to respond to the climate crisis and address systemic poverty. In her intervention during the roundtable on debt and debt sustainability, Peralta highlighted that over 3 billion people live in countries where debt payments surpass spending on essential services such as education and healthcare, deepening inequalities and limiting access to fundamental rights.  “Debt remains an obstacle to attaining the Sustainable Development Goals in many countries,” Peralta stated. “The World Council of Churches supports calls for a new debt architecture as part of a New International Financial and Economic Architecture, including the cancellation of unjust and illegitimate debts without imposing austerity, as reparations for the colonial and ecological debt owed to countries in the Global South, and the establishment of a permanent, transparent, and representative multilateral debt restructuring framework within the United Nations.” Peralta also addressed the issue of domestic resource mobilization, underscoring the disparity in carbon emissions between the world’s wealthiest individuals and those most affected by climate change. “While those least responsible for climate change bear the brunt of its impacts, the ultra-rich—who have seen their fortunes grow significantly since the pandemic —emit 1,000,000 times more carbon dioxide through investments in polluting industries,” she noted. Peralta called for implementing progressive wealth taxes, which she explained could “generate US$2.5 trillion annually—enough to lift 2.3 billion people out of poverty, deliver universal health care and social protection for 3.6 billion people, and meet states’ obligations to uphold human rights.” The WCC’s message at the forum underscored the moral responsibility to make wealthier polluters contribute more to climate reparations and a just transition to sustainable economies. “The resources are available; it’s time for leaders to act decisively to support vulnerable communities and ensure a sustainable, equitable future for all,” Peralta concluded. WCC Sustainability and Economy of Life: Advocacy for sustainable communities, accompanying the struggles of communities impacted by economic and ecological injustice. See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 352 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches Chemin du Pommier 42 Kyoto Building Le Grand-Saconnex CH-1218 Switzerland

WCC news: WCC strengthens faith and labor coalitions for global worker rights at Brussels dialogue

The World Council of Churches (WCC) reinforced its commitment to labor justice and climate equity at the "Care Dialogue" in Brussels on 30 October, co-hosted by UNI Care Europa. The event brought together key leaders from labor and faith communities to address critical issues in the global workforce, from workers’ rights to the future of work in an age of automation and environmental challenges. Photo: Albin Hillert/WCC 06 November 2024 Athena Peralta, director of the WCC Commission on Climate Justice and Sustainable Development, delivered a compelling presentation on “Building Bridges: Coalition-Building Between Trade Unions and Faith-Based Organizations.” She outlined the WCC’s longstanding alliance with labor movements and the organization’s commitment to socioeconomic justice. “The WCC critiques the prevailing economic paradigm which has privileged capital over labor, deepened socio-economic inequality, and eroded the rights of the working class,” Peralta emphasized​. In her address, Peralta highlighted the WCC’s view that “labor is integral to the vision of collective living and life-in-fullness for all,” connecting the mission for labor justice to biblical narratives that depict God as a worker alongside humanity. She noted, “In some of the biblical creation stories, God is a worker as well.” Faith communities, she explained, have a unique role in supporting workers’ rights, advocating for fair wages, and promoting safe and just working conditions. The Care Dialogue, held at the European Economic and Social Committee, also included speakers from organizations such as Caritas Europa, International Catholic Migration Commission, and UNI Global Union. Conversations focused on the pressing impacts of automation and precarious gig economy jobs, as well as the effects of climate change on vulnerable worker communities. In this context, Peralta called for “just and caring transitions towards zero-carbon economies,” highlighting the importance of “Christian solidarity with labor” to ensure these transitions are fair and inclusive​​. WCC Sustainability and Economy of Life: Advocacy for sustainable communities, accompanying the struggles of communities impacted by economic and ecological injustice. See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 352 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches Chemin du Pommier 42 Kyoto Building Le Grand-Saconnex CH-1218 Switzerland

WCC NEWS: WCC shares insights at Bolivia conference on HIV response

Gracia Violeta Ross, World Council of Churches (WCC) programme executive for HIV, Reproductive Health, and Pandemics, participated in an international conference on HIV, Chagas and other eliminable diseases held in Bolivia.  23 July 2018, Amsterdam, the Netherlandse. Religious leaders march through Amsterdam as part of their participation in the International AIDS Conference 2018, promoting access to testing and treatment for HIV, human rights, and the building of bridges, between faiths and between faith and other sectors for a coordinated HIV response. Photo: Albin Hillert/WCC 06 November 2024 She spoke on the connections of human rights and HIV. The violation of human rights and criminalization of affected communities, increases vulnerability to HIV; reversely, the protection of human rights of people living with HIV ensures access and retention in healthcare services. “Please note that I did not say patients, I said people,” she said. “I did not say fight; but the response to HIV.”  Her presentation was underscored by her description of human rights inherent to our human dignity.  "They are universal, indivisible, and interdependent,” she said. “Not all people exercise their human rights in the same way, with the same guarantees and freedoms.” She listed many human rights that have historically been violated among people living with HIV, including the right to health, right to life, right to information, and many others. “The right to health is the most violated,” she said. “There are still cases in which medical attention is denied because of an HIV diagnosis.” This is because some health personnel are afraid of acquiring HIV during care, she noted. “This comes from misinformation,” she said. “The right to health and to life are violated when there are situations of shortage of antiretroviral drugs.” Sexual and reproductive rights are denied to many people living with HIV, she noted. “We are told that we cannot experience sexuality or conceive because there is a risk of transmission,” said Ross. “This stems from misinformation and stigmas against certain population groups.” Currently antiretroviral treatment is so effective that anyone living with HIV who takes the medication every day and has an undetectable viral load can no longer transmit HIV.  “People living with HIV can practice their sexuality safely and freely, as well as conceive,” she said. “Many people in the LGTBQ+ community are questioned and prevented from adopting the identity of their choice.” Because of the stigmas associated with gay, lesbian, and transgender people, HIV care and prevention is often not provided, Ross explained. “Somehow it is thought that these people deserve to be diagnosed with HIV,” she said. “The violation of the right to identity also occurs in Indigenous communities when health services do not speak to them in their language or discriminate against them because of their dress and customs.” The right to work is also very much violated, said Ross. “It is very difficult to get a job if you speak publicly about your HIV diagnosis,” she said. “The causes are stigma and misinformation.” Some companies and employers think that HIV can be easily transmitted in a work environment as if it were the flu, Ross continued. “HIV is not contagious; it is transmitted in three ways: from mother to child, through unprotected sex, and through the use of contaminated blood or syringes,” she said. “Some employers still require HIV testing as a pre-employment requirement.” The right to privacy is very much violated as well, as some healthcare workers and family members continue to divulge the HIV status without the consent of the person Ross said. “The right to a life free of violence is very much violated in Bolivia,” she said. “You yourselves can see the news in the press where every week we know about cases of femicide and infanticide.”  She urged people to respect and protect the human rights of people living with HIV. “It is not difficult to respect the human rights of people living with HIV,” she said. Ross concluded by noting that World AIDS Day is approaching on 1 December. The theme is “Take the rights path,” with the meaning that the world can end AIDS – if everyone’s rights are protected. The WCC will hold an online World AIDS Day prayer on December 2, 2024 with this theme. UNAIDS' Social Media toolkit for World AIDS Day 2024. See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 352 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches Chemin du Pommier 42 Kyoto Building Le Grand-Saconnex CH-1218 Switzerland

WCC NEWS: Maria Lubat reflects on resilience, fatigue, and the complex landscape of Jerusalem

Living in the old city of Jerusalem amid the ongoing turmoil has profoundly shaped Maria Lubat’s day-to day life. Maria Lubat, member of the World Council of Churches central committee, as well as of the WCC Gender Justice Reference Group. Photo: Albin Hillert/WCC 06 November 2024 “It’s marked by a blend of resilience and fatigue,” said Lubat, who is a member of the World Council of Churches (WCC) central committee, as well as a member of the WCC Gender Justice Reference Group. “Every morning, I step into what feels like a once vibrant city rich in history, now lacking life, where silence weighs heavily on the atmosphere,” she said. “As a young Greek Orthodox Christian woman, I navigate a complex landscape, balancing my faith with the realities of living in a region marked by tension and witnessing the exhaustion and weariness of the people around me.” It’s challenging to see her city so diminished and lifeless, she reflected. “It’s heartbreaking to watch my neighbors and friends struggle to maintain hope amid the uncertainty, yet it motivates me to stay engaged and active,” she said. “This backdrop fuels my commitment to fostering positivity among those who remain.” Her work with the WCC and, more recently, with the Red Cross as an information management administrative assistant, serves as a beacon of hope.  “The hope for a better future drives me to be a voice for my community and to connect with others who share similar aspirations,” she said. “Every small effort matters, and through my work and interactions, I aim to remind those around me that even in these trying times, there is strength in our shared experiences and dreams because everything is ultimately by God's grace.” Addressing gender justice Being a Christian woman from Jerusalem—and part of the Greek Orthodox community—Lubat’s perspective on gender justice is deeply influenced by living in a region where cultural expectations often constrain women's roles. “I've seen both the struggles and the resilience of women striving for equality,” she said. “I’m proud to represent my church at the central committee of the World Council of Churches as the only woman, which reflects my church's commitment to valuing women's roles.” Her experience on the WCC central committee has shown her firsthand how important it is for faith communities to foster inclusive spaces where women's voices are not only heard but actively valued. “It's also crucial for churches to engage with their communities, offering support for women's empowerment initiatives and creating platforms for dialogue,” she said. “My hope is that faith communities can lead by example, showing that gender justice is not just a social issue but a fundamental aspect of our faith.” From Lubat’s perspective, ecumenism is more important than ever.  “As we face global challenges such as inequality, conflict, and environmental crises, it’s crucial for different Christian traditions to come together in solidarity and cooperation,” she said. “In my experience representing the Greek Orthodox Church of Jerusalem at the World Council of Churches, I’ve seen how diverse perspectives enrich our collective understanding of faith and justice.” She believes ecumenism allows us to pool our resources and strengths, addressing issues like gender justice and social inequality more effectively. “Moreover, in regions like mine, where cultural, political, and religious divides often exacerbate tensions, ecumenical efforts can foster dialogue and understanding among different communities,” she said. “By working together, we can promote peace, advocate for a more just society, and ensure that the status quo is preserved and respected, as it plays a vital role in maintaining harmony.” She asks for prayers for her people in the Middle East, who face many uncertainties and hardships. “It’s crucial that we come together in support of one another, and your prayers can help uplift those who are suffering—whether from conflict, economic struggles, or social injustices,” she said. “Additionally, I would appreciate prayers for all those around the world who are experiencing pain and suffering.” See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 352 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches Chemin du Pommier 42 Kyoto Building Le Grand-Saconnex CH-1218 Switzerland

WCC feature: Biodiversity COP16: ethical imperatives, Indigenous perspectives—and the work ahead

The World Council of Churches (WCC) participated in the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) of the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity held in Cali, Colombia, from 21 October to 1 November. The conference, under the theme "Peace with Nature,” drew 23,000 participants from 196 countries. The Faiths for Biodiversity coalition organised a multi-stakeholder dialogue. Photo: Louk Andrianos/WCC 04 November 2024 A 10-person WCC delegation for COP16 came from the WCC Commission on Climate Justice and Sustainable Development, WCC Commission of the Churches on International Affairs, and WCC Ecumenical Indigenous Peoples Reference Group, as well as local churches and ecumenical organisations. Global input On a global level, the WCC contributed to the Faiths for Biodiversity Coalition report “Uniting for Nature: Faiths at the Forefront of Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework Implementation” which was shared with the Convention on Biological Diversity executive secretary Astrid Schomaker. The report provides case studies showing how faith-based organizations around the world are, in many creative ways, making “Peace with Nature.” “Faith groups will find guidance on environmental care, while civil society organizations and businesses can explore partnerships with religious communities,” reads the introduction. Side events bring vital input The WCC also organized side events entitled “Tackling the intertwined biodiversity and climate crisis as two sides of the same coin,” “Indigenous perspectives and ethical imperatives for Biodiversity and Creation Justice,” and “Protecting nature through Ecocide Law: an interfaith conversation.” Through these side events, Indigenous voices were brought into focus. Jocabed Solano, from the Gunadule nation, an Indigenous community in Panama, urged people to strive for “well living” rather than “living well.” He spoke of how structural greed is pushing people to do everything possible to live well using creation, but “well living” is  about seeking harmony and peace with all creation through ecological spirituality. Kallan Benson, WCC Commissioner on Climate Justice and Sustainable Development, reflects on the intersection between climate change and biodiversity loss from a youth perspective. Photo: Neddy Astudillo Colombia brings historic moments For the WCC, the Colombia location for COP16 was deeply meaningful as the WCC is a permanent accompanier for peace talks with the Estado Mayor Central (EMC) FARC-EP. The tie between peace and biodiversity was clearly evident.  Together with DiPaz and other Colombian ecumenical partners, the WCC co-organised a series of events at the Baptist University on “Territories, peace, and biodiversity,” as well as an Ecumenical Service on Biodiversity COP16. COP16 in Cali was the most well-attended Biodiversity COP since the inauguration of such COPs in 1993, founded by governments aiming to halt the alarming rate of biodiversity loss threatening the web of life on Earth.  At COP16, governments and civil society representatives discussed the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the alignment of their National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans with the framework. Negotiations extended into 2 November. COP16 established a subsidiary body and work programme that will include Indigenous peoples in future decisions. This move recognises and protects Indigenous traditional knowledge for the benefit of global and national biodiversity management.  Solano described this as a historic moment for Indigenous peoples. “The value of the traditional knowledge of Indigenous peoples, Afro-descendants, and local communities is recognized, a historical debt in the Convention on Biological Diversity of 26 years is settled,” Solano said. In another significant outcome, COP16 reached agreement on a multilateral mechanism for sharing the benefits of using biological genetic information, known as digital sequencing information. Under this agreement, companies that profit from the use of this information would pay compensation into a fund, known as the Cali Fund. This new funding mechanism has the potential to raise significant resources for biodiversity protection. However, contributions will be voluntary. WCC COP16 delegates at the High-level Segment of COP16. Photo: WCC The work ahead In addition to historic moments, COP16 brought some disappointments to the WCC delegation and other faith-based and civic groups. COP16 failed to deliver on a broader global biodiversity fund and resource mobilization strategy. According to studies, nearly $100 billion is needed to safeguard biodiversity. Developed countries are missing commitments to provide $20 billion annually in international biodiversity financing by 2025. Pledges to a Global Biodiversity Framework Fund, an interim funding mechanism, totaled $407 million. Athena Peralta, director of the WCC Commission on Climate Justice and Sustainable Development, said that it is critical to invest in our ecosystems. “Wealthy nations who are more responsible for biodiversity loss and have benefited the most from global development must step up and fund biodiversity restoration,” she said. By the end of COP16, 44 revised National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans were submitted and 119 parties submitted revised national targets, representing around 63% of countries. Peter Prove, director of the WCC Commission of the Churches on International Affairs, said that, given the latest evidence of accelerating biodiversity loss, even in protected areas, states attending COP16 should have been galvanized by an acute sense of urgency and responsibility.  “But two years after the Kunming-Montreal agreement on a Global Biodiversity Framework, only 60% of states have formulated National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans to implement their commitments under the Global Biodiversity Framework.” Practical actions Yet the WCC delegation came away with a rejuvenated resolve to suggest and inspire practical actions to increase biodiversity.  Dr Louk Andrianos, WCC consultant for Care for Creation, Sustainability, and Climate Justice, urged acting on all levels of society and churches to share hope with creation.  “We  need to repent and change our  greedy systemic and individual behaviour when producing, distributing, and consuming natural resources,” he said. “Meat overconsumption, plastic overuse, chemical intensive farming, and genetic manipulations of species for corporate benefits are example of the ongoing war of human beings with nature.”   WCC advocates for creation care and justice at start of triple COP journey (WCC news release, 24 October 2024) WCC, ACT Alliance, and Lutheran World Federation issue joint call to action for biodiversity (WCC news release, 30 October 2024) See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 352 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa.  Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches Chemin du Pommier 42 Kyoto Building Le Grand-Saconnex CH-1218 Switzerland