Brussels,
18 June 2015 (ITUC OnLine): The unprecedented call for action from Pope Francis
in encyclical “Laudato Si” makes explicit the terrible consequences that
climate change and environmental degradation is already having on the poorest
and most vulnerable.
Sharan
Burrow, ITUC general secretary, said, “Pope Francis’ words underline the fact
that unless climate action is taken, our objectives of social progress and
decent work for all will remain a dream. Human rights and social justice
are threatened by the dramatic degradation of our environment, and his powerful
message reinforces the need for a just transition to a low-carbon,
environmentally sustainable future. The imperative for transforming our
economic system so that pollution is avoided and workers and their families can
access decent jobs and livelihoods is one we share.”
The
encyclical has received the support of other faith and environmental leaders
for what they consider is an urgent and timely call for politicians,
communities and people of all generations to act on climate change and social
injustice.
“Pope
Francis emphasises what the labour movement knows from experience: ‘that in the
absence of pressure from citizens, political authorities will always be
reluctant to intervene’ ”, said Burrow.
This call
for ambition and mobilisation takes particular importance in the lead-up to the
climate negotiations in Paris in December 2015. To date, the ITUC is
deeply concerned that the road to Paris is yet to show how the summit will
deliver an agreement which will protect citizens from the catastrophic impacts
of climate change and put the world on the path to decent and green job
creation, healthy environments and prosperity for all.
‘‘It is now
time for environmental groups, social movements, unions and the faith community
to come together in the fight against climate change, each one with its values
and potential but with a common commitment to support a deep and just
transformation of our economies and societies for the sake of all people and
the planet which we inhabit,” said Burrow.
The ITUC
represents 176 million workers in 162 countries and territories and has 328
national affiliates.
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