Citizens of the World Speak Up in Final UN Plenary
In the final plenary of the UN Climate Change Conference today representatives from non-governmental groups delivered their messages to delegates.
World Mayors:
The Mayor of the City of Montreal, Mr. Gerald Tremblay, read the Declaration signed by 190 Mayors from around the world, the result of te 4th Municipal Leaders’ Summit on Climate Change:
“The time for achieving results is now. We are calling for international solidarity among cities of the world. Let us work together now. This is the message I bring to you from the cities of the world.”
Business leaders:
Daniel Gagnier, Senior Vice President of Alcan, addressed the Plenary on behalf of business and industry organizations represented at the Conference.
“Business all over the world recognizes the risk of climate change. Businesses need coherent, long-term and consistent enabling policy frameworks in which to innovate, invest and operation.”
Environmental non-governmental organizations:
Steven Guilbeault spoke on behalf of CAN International and described the opportunities for further action on climate change:
“All Parties without exception want to avoid dangerous climate change. We should reinforce the Kyoto Protocol. It can serve as the basis for future action. It is sufficiently flexible to do so.”
Youth:
Five youth representatives from the International Youth Summit took turns reading their Declaration (“Our Climate, Our Challenge, Our Future”). Toward the end their voices were joined by those of other youth supporters in the audience who stood and chanted in unison: “Look into my eyes and stand with me for my future.” The President of the Conference, Stephane Dion, replied: “You may represent the most important constituency at this Conference.”
“We, youth, comprise one half of the global population; but this is our first and only opportunity to address the plenary. We have laid out our demands for action in the International Youth Declaration. We call on you to create a permanent, fully funded youth constituency to be included in the international climate change negotiation process within one year. It is our future you are negotiating; we need a seat at the table.”
World Council of Churches:
Joy Kennedy, from Kairos Canada, and Frances Namoumou talked about the lighting of a non-fossil fuel candle, a symbol of safety, warmth, community and hope.
“We pray for spiritual support in responding to the call of the Earth.”
