Christian Aid praises 'prophetic' global climate strikers

image: ICN/JS

Source: Christian Aid/ICN

An estimated three million young people and their parents, in cities around the world, took part in peaceful demonstrations on Friday, urging governments to act to stop climate change.

Christian Aid's youth and campaigns manager, Richard Baker, said: "The youth climate strikes have been nothing short of prophetic. One seemingly defiant act of protest by a 16-year-old girl in Sweden has grown into a thundering movement for change that is sweeping the globe.

"The climate strikers are pointing the way, it's now time world leaders and big business take heed and take action. This week at the crucial summit in New York we need to see countries making new pledges to cut their emissions and stronger commitments to help the poorest communities already suffering from the climate crisis."

In April, Greta briefly spoke with Pope Francis during the weekly general audience at the Vatican. "Thank you for standing up for the climate and speaking the truth. It means a lot," Thunberg told him. Pope Francis gave her his blessing and encouraged her to continue her work.