Interfaith statement towards COP28

Towards the UN Climate conference COP28, more than 200 faith leaders, scientists, youth, business leaders, women leaders and politicians, came together in Abu Dhabi 6-7 November to unite their voices in a Interfaith Statement. The Global Summit was co-hosted by UNEP Faith for Earth, the Muslim Council of Elders, COP28 Presidency, and the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence of UAE. 

Iyad Abumoghli, director of the Faith for Earth Initiative at UNEP, says:

“The significance of this gathering cannot be overstated, especially as we approach COP28, where the world cries out for transformative action to combat the escalating climate impacts threatening our beloved planet. This Summit represents a confluence of the power of faith actors.”

The statement includes a call to action for decision-makers, including promotion of urgent and just energy transitions, sustainable agriculture and resilient food systems, responsible investments and business practices as well as regarding Mother Earth as a source of life that must be protected. The representatives behind the statement committed, among other things, to “encourage a paradigm shift in the relationship with Earth and all its inhabitants, fostering a profound sense of reverence and responsibility.”

Iyad Abumoghli continues;

“Faith-based institutions, with their vast assets and investments, have the potential to be the driving force behind meaningful change. Their influence, when aligned with the values of the interfaith statement, can be a formidable catalyst for sustainable practices.”

The Summit was a preparation for the Faith Pavilion at COP28 November 30- December 12, the first of its kind, which will host over 70 sessions with more than 300 speakers.

Read the statement