In a momentous move, President Ranil Wickremesinghe has presented the Climate Justice Forum (CJF) at COP28, in Dubai, UAE today (Dec.02) emphasizing the critical importance of addressing climate issues with a sense of justice and equity.

Wickremesinghe was joined by prominent figures such as Mohammed Nasheed, the former President of Maldives; Dr. Aceng Jane Ruth, the Minister of Health of Uganda; and Inger Anderson, the Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP).

Addressing the launch, the President conveyed that the resolution of the Climate Justice Forum will be formally presented at the United Nations.

He described the CJF as an initial step to secure unwavering commitment from all parties involved in the collective effort. President Wickremesinghe underscored that the scope of contribution extends beyond the capabilities of countries alone, emphasizing the significant role private entities can play

The President also drew attention to the allocation of funds, noting that more financial resources are directed towards the war in Ukraine and the bombing of Gaza compared to what has been allocated for the Loss and Damages fund.

He extended invitations to other concerned nations to join this initiative, presenting it as a viable solution to the increased threat of climate change.

Additionally, the President has formally requested the collaboration and cooperation of esteemed organizations such as UNEP, UNDP and the EU to engage with interested countries in advancing the pioneering initiatives presented by Sri Lanka.

UNEP Executive Director, Inger Anderson, in her address at the launch, emphasized the growing disparity between the necessary actions and the current efforts in the battle against climate change. She welcomed the Climate Justice Forum, asserting that it will serve as a potent force in unifying nations for this collective endeavour.

Minister of Environment, Dr. Keheliya Rambukwella, addressing the gathering, advocated for cooperation and solidarity in tackling global challenges. He asserted that initiatives such as the Climate Justice Forum, orchestrated today, will significantly influence the future trajectory of the planet.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ali Sabry, PC, remarked at the event that despite on-going discussions, viable solutions to the climate crisis are not currently emerging. Consequently, the lawmaker stated that the Climate Justice Forum initiative will be integrated into Sri Lanka’s foreign policy, aiming to exert influence on the global stage for a sustainable future.

Minister of Health of Uganda, Dr. Aceng Jane Ruth, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a potential trend-setter that will help lead the fight against climate change.

The 28th session of the Conference of Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) kicked off in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday (Nov.30), bringing the world leaders together at a critical moment for global transformative climate action.

At COP28, President Wickremesinghe is envisioning 3 key focal points at the event: the launch of the Climate Justice Forum, the Tropical Belt Initiative and the establishment of a Climate Change University.

The concept behind the Climate Justice Forum aims to address the pressing issue of climate change and exert influence, particularly on the Global North.