The Vatican at the UN Summit on Biodiversity: A Call for Action
The Secretary of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, Emilce Cuda, is making waves at the ongoing UN Summit on Biodiversity in Cali, Colombia. She is carrying Pope Francis’ urgent message for the preservation of our common home and the need to involve marginalized populations in crucial decision-making processes.
Hosted in Cali, Colombia, the 16th UN biodiversity Summit, also known as COP16, has drawn around 15,000 delegates from 200 countries, including top government officials, environmental activists, indigenous groups, and representatives from various organizations. The theme of the summit, “Peace with Nature,” underscores the pressing need to address biodiversity challenges that threaten our planet’s survival.
Championing the Kunming-Montreal Biodiversity Framework
COP16 is crucial for promoting international cooperation to protect ecosystems and establish effective global environmental policies. The summit revolves around the Kunming-Montreal Biodiversity Framework (GBF), a groundbreaking plan adopted at COP15 in Canada. This framework aims to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030 through specific targets, such as protecting 30% of land and seas, reducing pesticide risks, and restoring degraded areas. Often referred to as the “Paris Agreement of biodiversity,” the GBF sets a clear path for global environmental conservation.
Colombia’s role as the summit’s host is significant, highlighting the country’s rich biodiversity and the challenges it faces. The nation is not only a biodiversity hotspot but also a dangerous place for environmental activists, with numerous killings occurring each year. The Church in Colombia has been actively engaged in addressing these issues, aligning with Laudato Si’s principles to safeguard our shared home.
A Voice for Marginalized Communities
Emilce Cuda, along with a Vatican delegation, is lending a powerful voice to the summit’s discussions. In her various engagements, she has emphasized Pope Francis’ message on caring for Creation and the importance of marginalized communities participating in environmental decision-making. Through events like the “International Forum of Afro-descendants,” Ms. Cuda has highlighted the social dimensions of environmental crises and the need for inclusive governance.
Ms. Cuda’s participation in interfaith dialogues and discussions on economic instruments for biodiversity preservation underscores the Vatican’s commitment to promoting environmental stewardship. By advocating for the involvement of indigenous and Afro-descendant populations in conservation efforts, she is shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future.
As Ms. Cuda shared her experiences from the summit, she emphasized the positive reception of the Pope’s message among governments, businesses, and financial institutions. The Church’s role in advocating for environmental protection and social justice is gaining recognition, paving the way for collaborative efforts to safeguard our planet’s biodiversity and cultural heritage.
As we navigate the complex challenges of our time, the Vatican’s presence at the UN Summit on Biodiversity serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, uniting diverse stakeholders in a shared mission to build a more sustainable world.
