The last activity of the OFM-JPIC visit is a meeting with the Franciscan International advocacy team. The purpose of the conference is to identify new plans for their existing advocacies and accomplishments. During the session, the OFM – JPIC office witnessed a momentous event for FI. Following years of sustained collective advocacy, the United Nations Human Rights Council adopted two landmark resolutions. It included the recognition of a right that has the potential to transform the environment and the appointment of a dedicated UN expert who can finally shed light on the missing links between climate change impacts and human rights.
As if watching a football match, the team set up a big screen and followed the deliberation of the UN Human Rights Council on these two important resolutions. It was a meaningful way to end the OFM-JPIC office visit to FI. The office congratulates FI for their milestones in our calls at the UN to protect our common home. The office wishes to thank Br. Markus Heinze OFM, Ms. Sandra Epal-Ratjen, all the staff, and most especially to Mr. Budi Tjahjono for organizing the entire visit. It was indeed a fruitful and meaningful visit. The office is looking forward to more collaboration in the future