Archbishop of Homs: “Save the climate? Stop waging war.”

PrintSyria, Ukraine, Gaza, Yemen… The list of conflicts in the world is extensive. So much destructive force contradicts the spirit of collaboration for the climate in Dubai.

In a world plagued by discord and turmoil, where conflicts rage on various fronts, it becomes increasingly difficult to find moments of unity and shared purpose. The relentless pursuit of power and dominance has fueled a seemingly endless cycle of destruction and suffering. Syria, torn apart by a brutal civil war; Ukraine, grappling with territorial disputes; Gaza, bearing witness to protracted violence; and Yemen, engulfed in a humanitarian crisis—all these places bear testament to the tragic consequences of unyielding conflict.

Amidst this backdrop of global strife, one would hope that international efforts to address the urgent challenges posed by climate change could serve as a unifying force. After all, the threat of a warming planet affects us all, regardless of borders or political ideologies. Yet, even in this realm, cooperation seems to be overshadowed by the shadows of discord.

Dubai, known for its opulence and extravagant displays of wealth, is set to host the upcoming Global Climate Summit—a gathering aimed at galvanizing global action to combat climate change. It is a paradoxical scene, where sumptuous skyscrapers pierce the desert skyline while devastating conflicts persist across the globe.

The choice of Dubai as the venue for such a crucial event raises questions and underscores the challenges faced in prioritizing collective action over self-interest. Can a city built on excess and luxury truly embody the spirit of environmental stewardship and cooperation? Or does the lure of economic prosperity blind us to the pressing need for sustainable solutions?

In the face of mounting evidence of climate change’s catastrophic impacts, one cannot help but wonder if the urgency of the situation is truly understood. Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and dwindling resources threaten the very fabric of our existence. If we are to avert this impending crisis, we must set aside our differences and work together towards a common goal.

Syria, Ukraine, Gaza, Yemen—these conflicts represent the worst of human nature, where division and violence prevail. However, it is precisely in the face of such adversity that the need for collective action becomes most apparent. Only through collaboration and shared responsibility can we hope to address the pressing challenges of our time.

As world leaders gather in Dubai, they must confront this dichotomy head-on. The pursuit of power and dominance may fuel conflicts, but it cannot provide lasting solutions to the existential threat posed by climate change. It is imperative that global unity takes precedence over individual agendas, that the urgency of the climate crisis transcends geopolitical fault lines.

The road ahead is fraught with obstacles, but it is not insurmountable. If we can bridge the gap between conflicting nations and ideologies, if we can channel our collective energy towards sustainable practices and inclusive policies, then perhaps Dubai can become a symbol of hope—a testament to the triumph of cooperation over conflict.

In a world scarred by destruction, the choice is ours. Will we let the flames of discord consume us, or will we rise above our differences and forge a path towards a brighter future? The fate of our planet hangs in the balance, and the time for action is now.

David Baker

David Baker