To the Delegates of COP28,
We, leaders of Camillian Disaster Service International, a faith-based humanitarian organization of the Order of the Ministers of the Infirm (Camillians), a Catholic religious order, gathered in Bangkok for our annual leadership conference from November 13 to 18, 2023. Thirty-seven leaders and members, representing seventeen developed and developing countries, renewed their commitment to alleviating human suffering in the face of natural and man-made disasters.
We extend our sincere greetings to the distinguished delegates gathered at COP28. As representatives of vulnerable communities from our respective countries, united by a common commitment to justice, compassion, and stewardship of our planet, we implore you to heed our collective call for urgent and decisive climate action.
The impact of climate change is devastating communities around the world, worsening poverty, hunger, and displacement. With a deep connection to vulnerable populations, our organization witnesses the toll of environmental degradation on human lives. We believe that addressing the climate crisis is an ethical imperative and a moral duty embedded in the core principles of faith traditions.
The interconnection between climate change and humanitarian crises: Pope Francis' encyclical "Laudato Si'" highlights the concept of integral ecology, emphasizing the interconnectedness of social, economic, and ecological systems. This interconnection shows that climate change exacerbates humanitarian crises, worsening poverty and displacing vulnerable populations. Furthermore, it urges us to care for our common home, the Earth. The increasing frequency of natural disasters due to climate change directly threatens human lives and well-being. Our moral obligation is to address the root causes of these crises.
Pope Francis consistently advocates for the most vulnerable members of society, emphasizing that they often bear the brunt of environmental degradation. As a faith-based humanitarian organization aligned with this perspective, we are committed to supporting those disproportionately affected by climate change, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs addressed.
Ethical Responsibility and Stewardship: The call for ecological conversion is rooted in the biblical concept of man as steward of creation. Recognizing our moral responsibility as stewards, we must work individually and collectively to reduce our carbon footprint and ensure a transition to sustainable practices. An integrated approach to sustainable development that respects the environment and human dignity is of fundamental importance. Our advocacy at COP28 must echo this conviction, urging delegates to adopt policies that promote the shift toward sustainable development. We emphasize the moral imperative to abandon fossil fuels and invest in clean and renewable energy sources. This transition is not only in line with ecological principles, but also contributes to the well-being of communities currently suffering the impacts of climate change.
To progress toward the fullness of life, realizing ecologically converted resilient communities, we appeal to every person of good will, especially the delegates of COP28, to:
- Recognize the role of religious organizations in humanitarian efforts and environmental stewardship and appreciate the importance of spirituality, values, and religious traditions as relevant voices in solving the climate crisis and shaping policies and programs;
- increase the commitment of wealthy countries to completely eliminate fossil fuel production, transition our economy 100% to renewable energies, and provide sufficient and transparent climate financing to low-income countries for building resilience;
- build health systems more resilient to climate change and community health systems to ensure the foundations of the social determinants of health.
As people of faith, we are ready to collaborate with governments, NGOs, and all people of good will to address the urgent challenges posed by the climate crisis. Together, let us work for a sustainable and just future for all.
May the decisions made at COP28 reflect the values of justice, compassion, and solidarity that our faith tradition has embraced.
Sincerely,
Aristelo D. Miranda, MI
Executive Director
