The Global South’s Call for Climate Justice and a Just Energy Transition
The world must move beyond fossil fuels—and it must do so justly.
This is the central message of the Global South Manifesto, released on March 16, 2026, by Catholic Episcopal bodies from Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, and Asia—together with representatives from Europe and Oceania.
Born from a shared discernment process at COP30 and looking ahead to COP31, this manifesto is a bold and urgent call for climate justice, ecological conversion, and a just transition for our common home.
It is not just a statement—it is a global invitation to act.
Read the Manifesto now
The Climate Crisis Is Here: The Cry of the Earth and the Poor
The science is clear—and so is our moral responsibility.
We are witnessing:
- Record-breaking global temperatures
- Increasing climate disasters
- Growing inequality driven by environmental collapse
This is not just an environmental issue.
It is a global justice crisis, affecting the most vulnerable communities first and worst.
Inspired by Laudato Si’ and Laudate Deum, the Church reminds us:
The climate crisis is inseparable from human dignity, peace, and social justice.
The Root Cause: Fossil Fuels and Climate Inequality
At the heart of the climate crisis lies a simple truth:
Fossil fuels—coal, oil, and gas—are the primary drivers of global warming.
They account for the majority of greenhouse gas emissions, yet global production continues to expand.
This deepens:
- Climate inequality between the Global North and South
- Environmental degradation
- Economic injustice
A system built on extraction and overconsumption is no longer sustainable.
A Just Solution: The Fossil Fuel Treaty
To address the root cause of climate change, the manifesto calls for a bold and necessary step:
A Fossil Fuel Treaty to complement the Paris Agreement
While the Paris Agreement sets global climate targets, it does not directly regulate fossil fuel production.
A Fossil Fuel Treaty would:
- End Fossil Fuel Expansion
Stop new coal, oil, and gas projects worldwide. - Ensure a Fair Phase-Out
Enable countries to transition at different speeds based on responsibility and capacity. - Deliver a Just Energy Transition
Support workers, communities, and economies shifting toward renewable energy.
This ensures that climate action is not only effective—but equitable and inclusive.
Beyond Energy: A Cultural and Spiritual Transformation
The manifesto reminds us that solving the climate crisis requires more than technological change.
It calls for a shift in values and lifestyles, including:
- Sustainable living and “happy sobriety”
- Energy as a human right, not a privilege
- Rejecting false solutions like greenwashing and exploitative extraction
A truly sustainable future must prioritize people over profit.
Read the Manifesto now
Climate Finance and Debt Justice: A Missing Piece
One of the most critical challenges in global climate policy is financial injustice.
Many countries in the Global South:
- Spend more on debt repayment than on climate adaptation
- Lack access to fair and accessible climate financing
The manifesto calls for:
- Debt relief linked to climate action
- Investment in renewable energy and climate resilience
- Support for vulnerable communities, including women, youth, and indigenous peoples
Because climate justice requires financial justice.
A Global Call to Action Ahead of COP31
As the world looks toward COP31, this manifesto urges leaders to act decisively:
- Commit to the Fossil Fuel Treaty
- Include fossil fuel phase-out in national climate plans (NDCs)
- Protect environmental defenders and indigenous rights
- Strengthen inclusive and democratic climate decision-making
This is essential not only for sustainability—but for global peace and stability.
Learn more about the Fossil Fuel Treaty
Faith, Hope, and Climate Action
Despite the urgency, this is a message rooted in hope.
The Church commits to:
- Supporting frontline communities
- Promoting sustainable and ethical practices
- Advocating for systemic transformation
Because the transition we need is not only environmental.
It is social, economic, and spiritual.
A Shared Future: Protecting Our Common Home
The message is clear:
A world beyond fossil fuels is possible—and necessary.
This manifesto invites everyone to be part of a growing global movement for:
- Climate justice
- Environmental protection
- Human dignity
The time to act is now.
The responsibility is shared.
And hope is still alive—if we choose it.