Friday, August 30, 2024

WCC NEWS: WCC calls for urgent climate justice at African conference

Reflecting on the theme “The welfare of the Earth is our welfare”, director of the World Council of Churches (WCC) Commission on Climate Justice and Sustainable Development Athena Peralta delivered a strong call to action at the All Africa Conference of Churches event on climate justice.
Athena Peralta, director of the World Council of Churches (WCC) Commission on Climate Justice and Sustainable Development, delivered a strong call to action at the All Africa Conference of Churches event on climate justice. Photo: AACC
29 August 2024

Held at the Desmond Tutu Conference Centre in Nairobi, the event brought together religious leaders, climate experts, and community representatives, all committed to addressing our planet's urgent challenges.

Peralta highlighted the long history of faith communities in addressing ecological issues. She pointed out that nearly 50 years ago, the WCC began its commitment to sustainable development at the WCC 5th Assembly in Nairobi, emphasizing the need for “right relationships.” 

Peralta urged wealthy nations to cut greenhouse gas emissions and support the communities most affected by climate change. “Climate justice is about ensuring that those who contribute least to climate change, yet suffer the most, receive support,” Peralta said. “This is a moral responsibility rooted in our faith.”

The event also covered the role of faith communities in the upcoming United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of Parties (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, in November. Peralta spoke about the work of the Interfaith Liaison Committee to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which the WCC co-chairs. The Interfaith Liaison Committee organizes the Interfaith Talanoa Dialogue, a key platform for faith groups to engage in climate discussions.

Peralta ended by calling for cooperation among faith communities to tackle the climate crisis. “We must work together, beyond our differences, to overcome this global challenge,” she said. 

The event highlighted the vital role of religious leaders in advocating for climate justice, especially as COP29 preparations continue.

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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.

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