The anticipated presence of hundreds of religious delegates at COP28 remains a significant force, even in the absence of Pope Francis. The Pope’s influential encyclicals, “Laudato Si” and “Laudate Deum,” have provided a moral imperative for climate action, and the Faith Pavilion within the COP venue will host religious figures aiming to influence negotiations.
Vatican’s Clarion Call for Substantial Change
Despite Pope Francis canceling his trip due to ill health, the Vatican’s recent exhortation, “Laudate Deum,” expressed hope for COP28 to go beyond mere appearances of concern and evoke substantial changes. The global stocktake, a central discussion point at COP28, aligns with the Vatican’s call for urgent action on climate issues.
Interfaith Unity Strengthens Moral Voice
The pre-COP gathering in Abu Dhabi, the Global Faith Leaders Summit, brought together around 200 religious participants representing diverse faiths. The ‘Confluence of Conscience’ resulted in a joint statement signed by 28 high-level faith leaders, urging businesses and policymakers to swiftly transition away from fossil fuels.
Religion as a Moral Force in Climate Change
Religious leaders view the climate crisis not only through the lens of environmental issues but as a spiritual crisis with deeper underlying problems. Rabbi Yonatan Neril, founder of the Interfaith Center for Sustainable Development, emphasizes the importance of long-term thinking, humility, and caring for others as spiritual solutions.
Faith-Based Organizations as the Largest NGOs
Religious institutions, collectively considered the largest non-governmental organizations (NGOs) globally, possess vast influence. They own significant portions of Earth’s land, forests, and educational institutions. Faith leaders, acting as moral advocates, bring a unique perspective to climate negotiations, appealing to the conscience of world leaders.
Religion’s Role Beyond Economic and Social Considerations
The Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD) and other faith-based organizations, actively involved in global aid, witness the escalating humanitarian disasters caused by climate change. The agency, part of Caritas Internationalis, is trusted to address the challenges faced by those on the frontlines of the climate crisis, emphasizing the holistic impact on cultural heritage and spiritual well-being.
Vatican’s Observer Status at COP28
The Vatican, holding observer status at the UNFCCC, possesses an official seat at COP28 discussions. With Pope Francis absent, the Vatican government’s unique position enables it to contribute insights that transcend economic considerations, focusing on moral imperatives and shared responsibility.
Faith Leaders Emphasize Moral Perspective
In conclusion, faith leaders bring a moral perspective to COP28, urging a just transition away from fossil fuels and influencing the narrative around climate change. As the Faith Pavilion hosts sessions led by faith and climate groups, the collective influence of diverse religious organizations seeks to inspire global leaders to take decisive action against the climate crisis.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Euronews.com
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