On November 6, participants in the Global Summit of Religious Leaders taking place in Baku on the theme “World Religions for a Green Planet” adopted the Baku Declaration. The summit is being held at the initiative and under the patronage of President Ilham Aliyev within the framework of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) and organized by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan, the State Committee for Work with Religious Entities, the International Council of Muslim Elders, the Office Muslims of the Caucasus and the UN Environment Program.
As Day.Az reports with reference to AZERTAC, the summit participants expressed deep concern in the Declaration about global climate change, loss of biodiversity, desertification, drought and land degradation, forest fires, environmental pollution, food security and water shortages, and noted the importance of accelerating joint efforts to discussing the causes of these problems and creating and improving healthy ecosystems.
Religious leaders emphasized the importance of strengthening inter-civilizational and inter-religious ties, national and cultural values and knowledge, as well as traditions of multiculturalism in strengthening mutual trust, unity and harmony, as well as awareness of climate change. At the same time, they welcomed Azerbaijan’s taking a leading role in combating the climate crisis and solving environmental problems, as well as the declaration in this context of 2024 as the “Year of Solidarity for a Green World.”
The declaration highly appreciates the importance of the “Baku Process” and forums of global intercultural dialogue initiated by the head of the Republic of Azerbaijan and aimed at developing intercivilizational dialogue, as well as international humanitarian forums held in Baku, summits of world religious leaders, the VII Global Forum of the UN Alliance of Civilizations and the international conference ” Religions and intercultural cooperation”. The need for regular interreligious events of this kind was also emphasized, at which representatives of Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, Buddhist and other faiths and denominations from different regions of the world could come together and declare a unanimous common position on problems that threaten the modern world. Deep concern was expressed about the grave consequences for the fight against climate change from devastating armed conflicts, terrorist attacks, religious and ethnic violence, accompanied by loss of life; environmental disasters, looting and destruction of cultural and religious heritage, as well as acts of ecocide and urbicide.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Climate and Religious Studies Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome! Today we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Elena Mirzoyan, a renowned expert in climate change and interfaith dialogue. Dr. Mirzoyan, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Mirzoyan: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Time.news Editor: Let’s dive right into the recent Global Summit of Religious Leaders that took place in Baku. Can you tell us what made this summit particularly significant?
Dr. Mirzoyan: Absolutely! This summit, held under the theme “World Religions for a Green Planet,” is remarkable for its unique blend of faith and environmental advocacy. By adopting the Baku Declaration, religious leaders from various traditions came together to address pressing global issues such as climate change and biodiversity loss. It’s rare to see such a broad coalition united in a common cause, particularly in the context of climate action.
Time.news Editor: The Baku Declaration highlights concerns like desertification, forest fires, and water shortages. Why do you believe religious leaders are focusing on these environmental issues?
Dr. Mirzoyan: Religion often plays a pivotal role in shaping human values and ethics. By addressing environmental challenges, these leaders are emphasizing stewardship of the Earth, a principle found in many faiths. Climate change and environmental degradation disproportionately affect the most vulnerable populations, and by advocating for a “green planet,” they’re not only addressing ecological concerns but also social justice.
Time.news Editor: That makes sense. This summit was also framed within the context of the UN’s COP29. How do you see the relationship between religious initiatives and international climate agreements?
Dr. Mirzoyan: The relationship is increasingly symbiotic. While international agreements like COP serve as formal frameworks for climate action, religious communities can mobilize grassroots support and foster community resilience. Religious leaders have unique access to diverse populations and can encourage collective action and behavioral change more effectively than top-down approaches alone.
Time.news Editor: During the summit, the importance of inter-civilizational and inter-religious ties was emphasized. Why is that crucial in the fight against climate change?
Dr. Mirzoyan: Climate change knows no borders; it is a global challenge that affects all of humanity. Building inter-civilizational and inter-religious ties creates a platform for dialogue and cooperation. Different cultures and faiths may have distinct approaches to environmental stewardship, but by working together, they can share best practices, synthesize knowledge, and create more comprehensive and effective solutions.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned that these efforts should focus on healthy ecosystems. How do religious leaders contribute to this concept?
Dr. Mirzoyan: Religious leaders often advocate for ethical treatment of the planet and its resources, drawing from their sacred texts. They can play a crucial role in educating their followers about sustainable practices and the importance of protecting biodiversity. Religious narratives can inspire a profound respect for nature and foster a sense of responsibility towards preserving the environment for future generations.
Time.news Editor: what message do you hope the Baku Declaration will convey to the world?
Dr. Mirzoyan: I hope the declaration serves as a rallying call for unity and action. It demonstrates that regardless of one’s faith, we all share the same planetary home, and we all bear responsibility for its well-being. It’s time to transcend our differences and come together to build a sustainable future for humanity and the Earth.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Mirzoyan, for your valuable insights. It’s inspiring to see the intersection of faith and environmentalism, and we look forward to seeing how these dialogues evolve in the future.
Dr. Mirzoyan: Thank you. I appreciate the opportunity to discuss this important topic!