At the COP29 forum in Baku, Azerbaijan, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, alongside the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Internal Affairs of the UAE, chaired a high-level ministerial meeting in the Blue Zone, gathering important global leaders in the field of human rights and environmental protection. The forum, conducted with the support of the Attorney General of Azerbaijan and the UNODC, highlighted the critical role of law enforcement agencies in addressing climate issues and transnational challenges at COP29.
In his opening address, Sheikh Saif congratulated Azerbaijan on hosting COP29 and commended Dr. Aliyev and Dr. Uli for the collaborative efforts in organizing the notable event 'Mobilization of Human Rights Defenders for Climate Action.' Sheikh Saif directed an emotional appeal, equating Earth to a mother, whose health is crucial for the survival and well-being of humanity. At COP29, the 'Baku Call to Action' was presented, emphasizing the global obligation to strengthen the role of human rights defenders in addressing ecological problems.
Sheikh Saif underlined that transparency and collaboration are key in the struggle against what he termed 'ecological terrorism,' adding that 'we need to be clear with ourselves and each other, shining a light on those who commit crimes against humanity and our planet, and calling for real changes in global policies that protect the environment.'
Sheikh Saif also noted the positive contributions of certain countries and acknowledged the destructive role of others, calling for collective accountability. He expressed gratitude to international partners supporting the I2LEC initiative since COP28, sharing the significant initial results achieved. The platform was seen as a significant milestone in strengthening the role of human rights defenders in ecosystem protection and promoting global sustainability.
The forum concluded with the adoption of the 'Baku Call to Action,' a declaration that reinforces global commitments to strengthen the role of human rights defenders in addressing ecological problems. 'If the health of our planet is in order, then humanity will thrive, the world will prosper, and future generations will be protected,' quoted Sheikh Saif, also presenting the I2LEC initiative aimed at protecting the environment, emphasizing that a perpetrator is not only a thief or a terrorist; there is ecological terrorism directed at our environment.
