Will COP30's Shocking Secrets Change Your Faith and Climate Action Forever?

As the world grapples with the dual crises of climate change and food insecurity, a significant webinar is set to take place on Human Rights Day, culminating the 2025 Faith, Climate, and Environment series. This event will synthesize insights from two pivotal international gatherings: the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) held in Belém, Brazil, and the 53rd session of the UN Committee on World Food Security (CFS53) in Rome. Participants from the World Council of Churches (WCC), who attended both conferences, will share their firsthand experiences, key takeaways, and implications for faith-based climate justice initiatives.

The intertwining of climate change and food security is particularly stark; climate impacts are increasingly recognized as direct threats to the right to food. During COP30, negotiators focused on enhancing climate action and resilience, while at CFS53, the WCC collaborated with organizations like Caritas Internationalis and World Vision International to launch a joint statement advocating for the right to food and nutrition for marginalized communities. This intersection reinforces the necessity of viewing climate issues through a human rights lens.

Moderated by Dinesh Suna, WCC programme executive for Land, Water, and Food and coordinator of the WCC Ecumenical Water Network, the upcoming webinar promises to highlight critical discussions surrounding food systems in conflict-affected regions. Places like Gaza and Sudan are particularly vulnerable as climate stresses exacerbate existing food insecurities and lead to increased displacement. Suna's reflections on these discussions will provide valuable insights into how climate justice and human rights advocacy can be advanced in these areas.

The lineup of speakers includes Rev. Henrik Grape, WCC senior advisor for Care for Creation, Sustainability, and Climate Justice, and Athena Peralta, director of the WCC Commission on Climate Justice and Sustainable Development. Together, they will explore the challenges and potential solutions to the pressing issues of climate and food security.

This webinar not only highlights pressing global problems but also serves as a platform for advocacy and awareness on a day dedicated to human rights. As climate change continues to threaten food systems worldwide, the discussions are timely, aiming to strengthen the connection between faith communities and environmental justice. Registration for the event is open to all, making it an accessible opportunity for individuals interested in the intersection of faith, climate, and human rights.

In a world where climate change is no longer a distant threat but a current reality, understanding the interconnectedness of these issues is critical. For those concerned about the future of food security and human rights, this webinar promises to shed light on vital strategies for advocacy and action.