Jesuit Missions at UN Climate Change Conference - Day 3

Cristóbal Emilfork SJ writes: It is the third day of the Bonn Climate Conference - but actually, it is the first day of negotiations. I state this because it took almost two full journeys for the parties to agree on the agenda for this preparatory meeting, which is supposed to set the precedent for COP30.

One obvious consequence of this is that time and space seem even more limited for steering the packed list of key issues toward a successful conclusion. Beyond the confines of this meeting - the days are running out to come up with answers to the climate emergency - especially for those who are already suffering the worst repercussions.

There are so many issues and points under discussion that everyone has to form alliances. Countries form interest groups through which they can better represent their often divergent interests; constituencies do the same, finding strategies to amplify and perhaps make their messages more effective.

Everything is transformed into a space for discussion and negotiation, where expectations must be put into play through links that must be dynamic and flexible if they are to survive.

In a way, this reminds me of the logic of alliances in nature and the fact that we are all connected, as are our actions. I know it's cliché, but that doesn't make it any less true.

Alliances, in general, can be forged for a wide range of objectives and with positive or even spurious intentions. I wonder how we can establish links that can actually help us leverage faster and better?

How can we successfully structure the actions we need to act effectively (but not recklessly) and in a qualified and more sustainable way; successfully address this challenge that affects us all, without distinction.

Next Tuesday, 24 June, from 6.30-8.30pm local time, the Jesuit European Social Centre will be holding a side event which will be livestreamed here: https://jesc.eu/sb62-side-event/

LINK

Jesuit Missions reflections from Bonn Climate Change Conference: https://jesuitmissions.org.uk/bonn-climate-change-conference-2025-daily-reflections/