COP27 brings together states parties, as well as thousands of experts, journalists, and representatives from businesses and nongovernmental groups, to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. To be held in November 2022, it is an important opportunity for the international community to meet and discuss ambitious, rights-based climate action.
And the PC(USA) will be there too, joining folks from around the world, acknowledging that the severe climate events over the past few years should be evidence that to prevent or mitigate further devastation, we as– humans must take urgent action to reduce carbon emissions, increase natural solutions, and do all that’s in our power to turn the tide of climate change impacts.
This year, the delegation includes PC(USA) staff members as well as two Presbyterians; Jessica Maudlin from the Presbyterian Hunger Program (PHP), Sue Rheem from the Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations, Catherine Gordon and Christian Brooks from the Presbyterian Office of Public Witness, Laurie Kraus and Edwin Gonzalez Castillo from Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, as well as Bill Somplatsky-Jarman, former PC(USA) staff and Neddy Astudillo, a member of PHP’s advisory committee.
This year’s gathering will be held in Egypt, just the fifth time a COP has been hosted in an Africa country. The leaders of the region hope it will draw attention to the severe impacts of climate change on the continent. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) says Africa is one of the most vulnerable regions in the world. Currently, an estimated 17 million people are facing food insecurity in east Africa because of drought.
However, choosing Egypt as the venue has created concern due to restrictions that have been imposed.
Civil society (including activists, human rights defenders and Indigenous people’s representatives) plays an essential role in the advancement of climate action, and the experts underscored that Egypt should ensure safe and meaningful participation for all at COP27.
“Instead of further limiting their rights, civil society actors and human rights defenders, including those working on climate rights, must be given an opportunity to raise awareness about their views and protection needs,” the experts said. “We strongly believe that COP27, organised by the United Nations, should uphold the public’s right to participate in the conduct of public affairs, as recognised by Egypt.”
The PC(USA) joins faith groups showing up physically in Egypt to ensure that vulnerable voices are heard at side events, meditations, interventions, and actions to raise ambition and raise awareness for our common home. We will also be lifting up opportunities to pray and join in some COP27 events virtually.
Follow the Eco-Justice Journey Blog to keep up to date with our delegation!
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