Youth Climate and Peace Initiative Highlighted at COP29 Baku Azerbijan.
November 18, 2024 Baku, Azerbaijan: Fr. Dr. C.P. Anto, Director of Peace Channel and Principal of NEISSR, participated in COP29 as an observer and delegate, where spoke about Peace Channel – Going Green, a model initiative for peace and climate change action in Nagaland and parts of North-East India. This initiative, led by the Diocese of Kohima, integrates youth peacebuilding with environmental sustainability, offering a grassroots approach to addressing climate challenges.
Fr.Anto highlighted the achievements of Peace Channel – Going Green, which focuses on empowering children, youth and community leaders through activities such as peace building, reforestation, peace gardens, ecological and peace education, and the promotion of sustainable practices. He emphasized the critical role of such community-driven initiatives in advancing climate resilience while aligning with global climate goals under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
Dr. Anto also attended various side events, talks at various national pavilions and shared insights. He also was interviewed by the UNFCCC organizing team, discussing the role of individuals and the urgent need to save our earth.
The main objectives of COP29
Held in Baku, Azerbaijan, COP29 focused on:
1. Reinforcing global commitments to limit global warming to 1.5°C by encouraging nations to revise and strengthen their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
2. Scaling up climate finance to support adaptation and mitigation in developing and vulnerable nations.
3. Establishing robust frameworks for loss and damage funding to address irreversible climate impacts.
4. Promoting innovation in renewable energy and sustainable resource management.
Participation and Global Message
COP29 brought together over 32,000 delegates from 193 countries, including government leaders, environmental experts, activists, and industry representatives. The summit’s central message was: The time for action is now collective and urgent efforts are imperative to secure a sustainable future for all.
Fr. Anto’s opportunity to share the Peace Channel initiative emphasises the importance of grassroots efforts in combating climate change. The program’s emphasis on youth engagement and sustainable practices serves as an inspiring model for global climate action, particularly for vulnerable regions like North-East India. Personally, it was an oppertunity to connect, share, learn and network. A special thanks to Dr.Domnic Dixon the Executive Director UNADAP (United Nations Associations for Development and Peace) for making me part of the COP29 delegation.
Fr.C.P.Anto