The Vatican has sparked controversy at the COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan by opposing key provisions addressing women’s rights. Sources reveal that Pope Francis’ representatives, led by Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, have joined Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iran, and Egypt in blocking updates to a UN program aimed at empowering women disproportionately affected by climate change.
Objections Over Gender References
The primary point of contention revolves around the inclusion of the term “gender” in the Lima Work Programme on Gender, a UN initiative introduced ten years ago to integrate women’s experiences into climate action and channel financial support to them. Charities and negotiators assert that the Vatican and its allies fear the term may implicitly include transgender women and references to gay women, which they oppose.
This objection has stalled negotiations, preventing the summit from finalizing updates to the program. Critics argue this delay undermines efforts to protect women and girls, who, according to UN estimates, comprise 80% of those displaced by climate change.
A Call for Progress
Colombian Environment Minister Susana Muhamad, one of the few negotiators willing to speak on record, criticized the obstruction, describing it as “unacceptable.” Muhamad emphasized the importance of advancing women’s access to resources and support in the face of mounting climate challenges.
“The Latin American countries are working very hard,” she told BBC. “We will not allow the gender program to drop and allow human rights to be compromised.”
Muhamad’s stance highlights a broader commitment among Latin American nations to ensure that gender remains a focal point in climate action, despite resistance from more conservative factions.
Vatican’s Stance on Consensus
A Vatican spokesperson expressed hope for a resolution, emphasizing the need for consensus that respects all participants’ sensitivities. “The Holy See hopes that consensus will be reached, with respect for the sensitivities of each participating State and in a language acceptable to all,” the spokesperson stated.
This approach, however, has drawn criticism from observers who argue that the Vatican’s insistence on compromise is delaying critical action. Organizations like ActionAid stress the urgency of providing targeted support to women, particularly those on the frontlines of climate-induced crises.
Wider Implications of the Deadlock
The impasse raises concerns about the effectiveness of global climate talks in addressing complex social issues. Critics note that the Vatican’s alignment with nations like Saudi Arabia and Russia—countries often scrutinized for their human rights records—further complicates efforts to ensure gender equity in climate policies.
The stalling of discussions also reflects broader tensions between progressive and conservative factions within international negotiations, potentially setting a precedent for future disputes over rights-based approaches to global issues.
The Path Forward: Can Gender and Climate Justice Align?
As the COP29 summit continues, the question remains: Can nations overcome ideological divides to address the urgent needs of women disproportionately affected by climate change? The answer will shape not only the success of this year’s conference but also the future of inclusive climate action on a global scale.
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