Muslim Council Of Elders Joins Global Discussion On Climate Action

The Muslim Council of Elders recently participated in the 60th session of the Bonn Climate Conference (SB 60). The meeting, held at the UNFCCC Secretariat headquarters in Bonn, Germany, focused on the role of religious institutions in promoting global climate action. Key participants included the UNFCCC Secretariat, the Interfaith Liaison Committee (ILC), and representatives from the COP28 and COP29 Presidencies.

The primary aim of the meeting was to strategise on how religious institutions can support countries in achieving their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) by 2025. The Muslim Council of Elders highlighted the influential role of religious institutions and communities through their moral authority, extensive networks, and commitment to social justice. They emphasized leveraging this role to enhance decisive climate actions and NDCs in the coming years.

Participants underscored the importance of constructive collaboration among representatives of religious communities. They also noted the urgent need to establish a unified framework to address climate challenges effectively. The Muslim Council of Elders has been actively working to engage religious leaders in addressing climate change.

One significant effort by the Council was organising the Global Faith Leaders Summit for Climate. This summit led to the publication of the "Abu Dhabi Joint Declaration for Climate," co-signed by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, and His Holiness Pope Francis of the Catholic Church, along with 28 other religious leaders. This declaration marked a significant step in uniting faith leaders for climate action.

Additionally, the Council organised the first-ever Faith Pavilion in COP conference history at COP28. This pavilion provided a global platform that brought together religious leaders, environmental experts, academics, and representatives of youth, women, and indigenous peoples. The aim was to explore effective ways to preserve planet Earth and protect its natural resources.

The meeting at SB 60 highlighted that religious institutions have a crucial role in climate action. By leveraging their moral authority and extensive networks, these institutions can significantly contribute to achieving NDCs and addressing climate challenges. The collaborative efforts among various faith-based organisations are essential for creating a unified approach to combat climate change.

With inputs from WAM