“Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are.”
Benjamin Franklin
Climate change is already impacting people in poverty the hardest, particularly those in developing nations (the Global South). Those of us in the Global North bear greater responsibility for the changing climate than countries in the Global South because we created most of the historic emissions and we are much wealthier, much of our wealth arising from activities that caused the emissions.
This was recognised in principle over thirty years ago by the countries involved in the climate COPs over thirty years ago and was written down as the principle of 'common but differentiated responsibilities'. But like so many things in life, now that the principle must be acted on, there are difficulties. Developed countries want emerging economies like China, to take on stricter duties, while developing nations argue the Global North owes them justice for historical pollution and current vulnerabilities. Countries tend to look out for themselves instead of towards the common good.
(Some of our information sources)The Bible has a lot to say about equity and fairness. Here are three instances from Proverbs and Micah.
From Proverbs: Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.
Proverbs 31:8-9 (NIV)
From Micah: He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
Micah 6:8 (NIV)
And back in Proverbs: The righteous care about justice for the poor, but the wicked have no such concern.
Proverbs 29:7 (NIV)
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Some suggestions...
Pray that:
The ‘common but differentiated responsibilities’ principle will be remembered and protected.
The 'developed' nations in the Global North will recognise their relative wealth and that they will be generous in their support of 'developing' nations in the Global South.
Wealthy nations will step up in delivering the vitally needed climate finance to support communities to adapt to a crisis they didn’t cause. 1
Countries in the Global South transitioning into viable economies will choose to undertake obligations in line with their economic status.
Pray for:
Good dialogue between the two groups of nations.
Breakthrough where negotiations are “stuck”.
Excellent practical outcomes, and that words will become actions, implemented quickly, efficiently and effectively 1.
For the development and fair sharing of technologies and practices that are sustainable and increase the resilience of communities affected by the climate crisis 2.
Justice and fairness for those worst hit by our changing climate – people living in extreme poverty, with the fewest resources to implement change 3.
Our own role in this – from the power of our using voices to influence our politicians and policy, to the choices we make as consumers.
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How can I pray for COP31? | Tearfund
Pray for Climate Justice (pdf) | Christian Aid
5 Powerful Prayers for Climate Change | Compassion UK
We draw this section to a close by using part of Psalm 9 to remind us that God rules the world in righteousness and judges us all with equity.
We will give thanks to you, LORD, with all our heart;
We will tell of all your wonderful deeds.
You are just and trustworthy
We will be glad and rejoice in you;
We will sing the praises of your name, O Most High.
You are just and trustworthy
The LORD reigns forever;
he has established his throne for judgement.
He rules the world in righteousness
and judges the peoples with equity.
You are just and trustworthy
The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed,
a stronghold in times of trouble.
Those who know your name trust in you,
for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.
You are just and trustworthy
We put our trust in you
We praise your name
Psalms 9:1-2;7-10