The Churches of the Global South call for “a just transition beyond fossil fuels”

Leaders from across the Catholic Church convened in a global webinar this week, with African voices taking a leading role in a renewed call for climate justice and a just transition beyond fossil fuels.

The Global South Catholic Church organised an importtant webinar on March 16, 2026 on the Care for Our Common Home. At this event, Leaders from across the world, with African voices, issued a renewed call for climate justice and a just transition beyond fossil fuels.

The event marked the launch of the “Manifesto of the Churches of the Global South for Our Common Home,” bringing together bishops, theologians, and climate advocates from across continents. More than 1 000 participants joined the online gathering, and the message from Africa stood out clearly: climate action must prioritize justice, dignity and the protection of vulnerable communities.

Leaders Voices

Speaking on behalf of Africa, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, President of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), stressed that the continent continues to bear the brunt of environmental harm despite contributing the least to global emissions. Delivered by Rev. Fr. Rafael Simbine Junior, Secretary General of SECAM, the message of Cardinal Ambongo, warned that poorly managed energy and development projects have exposed many African communities to displacement, ecological damage and economic hardship.

“A just transition must ensure that the dignity of people and the protection of creation remain at the center of global decisions,” he said, highlighting the risks to both populations and biodiversity across the continent.

Among the participants was Brazilian Cardinal Jaime Spengler, president of the Latin American and Caribbean Episcopal Council (CELAM), who spoke on the panel to explain the motivations behind the manifesto and its significance for Latin America.

Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, president of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC), emphasized that Asia faces a complex situation in which large industrial centers dependent on coal coexist with coastal communities vulnerable to the effects of climate change.

The need for community-driven solutions

While leaders from Asia, Europe, and Oceania echoed similar concerns, African representatives emphasized that any shift away from fossil fuels must not deepen inequality or leave workers behind.

African contributions were further strengthened by regional experts, including Jesuit priest Rigobert Minani, who reflected on grassroots realities and the need for community-driven solutions.

The webinar concluded with a unified call for stronger global cooperation, with African Church leaders urging governments and international partners to support sustainable development pathways that protect both people and the planet.

SECAM Communications Office

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English: EN-Joint Civil Society Statement Ahead of ICARRD Final (1)
Français: (coming soon)
Português: Manifesto_A Nossa Casa Comum_Sul Global_PT
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