Dubai -Brussels – 11th December 2023
On Sunday, 10th December 2023, Europe – Asia Center hosted a high-level dialogue titled “Inter-Religious Dialogue as a Catalyst for Global Climate Action” at the United Nations Climate Conference (COP 28) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Distinguished experts participating at the high-level dialogue included H.E. Erik Solheim, vice-chair of the Europe – Asia Center and former UN Deputy Secretary General, Executive Director of UN Environment, H.E. Madame Irina Bokova, former UNESCO Director General, Venerable Master Ji-Jing, leader of faith and Cultural consultant of the Europe – Asia Center and Dr. Samir Boudinar, director of Alhokama Center for Peace Research and representative of the Muslim Council of Elders.
In dialogue, moderated by Matic Gajsek, director for Europe at the Europe – Asia Center, distinguished panelists explored the intersection of faith and Climate action. The panel explored a range of exemplary Initiatives Across Faiths that contribute towards galvanizing broader Citizen Engagement.
Specific questions were addressed on the profound relationship between spirituality and environmental stewardship, the role of culture, cultural heritage, and education in steering climate action, translation of faith principles into accessible steps for a global audience, and the potential of leaders of faith as influential advocates for widespread climate awareness.
In context of COP28 for the first time also highlighting the Pavilion of Faith, the dialogue stood as a pivotal exploration into the potential of dialogue between faiths in steering global climate action, and enlightened the path to civilizational prosperity.
About the Europe-Asia Center
The Europe-Asia Center is an independent, not-for-profit organization promoting Asia-Europe relations by connecting professionals, institutions, organizations and networks across all sectors. Through implementation of projects, including conferences, workshops, cultural events, publications, educational and research programs, the mission of the Europe- Asia Center is to connect people and knowledge across continents.
For press enquiries:
Matic Gajšek, Director for Europe, Europe – Asia Center
E-mail: m.gajsek(at)europe-asia.org