Pope Francis Calls for Global Unity to Address Climate Change’s Impact on the Poor

Vatican, December 2, 2024: Pope Francis urged immediate global cooperation to combat climate change, highlighting its disproportionate impact on the world’s poorest communities. His message was delivered during a seminar held in Rome organized by the embassies of Cuba, Bolivia and Venezuela to the Holy See. Attended by Cardinals and experts, the event emphasized the urgent need for action as extreme heat waves now affect 30% of the global population annually, according to the UN Environment Programme.

In his letter, Pope Francis warned that the signs of climate change are “undeniable” and urged humanity to embrace a relationship of reciprocity with nature, not tyranny. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, echoed this sentiment, advocating for concrete measures rooted in the Church’s Social Doctrine. He cited the Vatican’s own steps, such as installing solar panels and adopting electric vehicles, as examples of responsible stewardship.

Cardinal Peter Appiah Turkson of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences called climate change a glaring instance of “structural sin” and stressed the moral obligation to act. He reminded participants that the world is a divine creation, not an accident and humanity must fulfill its role as co-creators. Dr. Paolo Ruffini, Prefect of the Dicastery for Communication, reinforced the message, labeling the climate crisis an undeniable reality requiring immediate response.

Representatives from Latin America highlighted the disproportionate suffering of impoverished nations. Emilce Cuda, Secretary of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, noted the lack of global attention to devastating floods in Brazil compared to wealthier nations. She emphasized that economic disparity should not diminish the right to equal global consideration and action.

As COP29 concluded without significant financial commitments to developing countries, Pedro Luis Pedroso Cuesta of Cuba criticized its fragmented approach. Quoting Cuban revolutionaries, he stressed that delay in addressing the climate crisis is no longer an option: “Tomorrow will already be too late.”

The seminar concluded with a shared call for global solidarity, sustainable development and the implementation of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato si’, emphasizing the collective responsibility to safeguard the planet for future generations.

Courtesy: Vatican News