‘The world probably needs no more convincing that climate change is a real danger, to our shared security as well,’ said Kaja Kallas at the meeting. ‘However, the world certainly needs leaders who would shape certain actions, plans; would set objectives and would realise these in combatting climate change.’
In her speech, Kallas emphasised that she is happy that the European Union is at the forefront in combatting climate change and that Estonia has also set the goal of achieving climate neutrality domestically by 2050. ‘Although it was a crucial decision, it was not easy. Especially in Estonia, where energy production has traditionally been based on fossil oil shale. The current Government is fully committed to contributing to global goals, and we have established a clear timeline for ceasing the use of oil shale in 2040.’
According to Kallas, climate change as a threat to security is further characterised by the fact that the most fragile and least prepared countries are affected by it the most. ‘A UN peacekeeping operation or political special mission is present in seven of the ten countries most affected by and least prepared for climate change. The UN Security Council cannot ignore climate change and its effect on security.’ Kallas added that research has also shown that women and children, especially, suffer as a result of climate change. ‘There is no doubt that climate change makes the world a more dangerous place.’ According to her, it is important to focus on the issue specifically at the UN Security Council, especially before the 26th UN Climate Change conference held in Glasgow this autumn.
At the meeting, Estonia introduced the proposal to create the Data for the Environment Alliance (DEAL), and invited countries to join it. ‘The Data for the Environment Alliance would be a community of countries and non-governmental organisations which would support the UN Environment Programme by developing a global environmental data strategy by 2025. Also, it would help improve the collection of environmental data and the use thereof around the world,’ said Kallas.
On the Prime Minister level, in addition to Estonia and the current President of the Security Council, the United Kingdom, Norway, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Vietnam and Niger also participated at the meeting. The US was represented by special envoy John Kerry, and France was represented by President Emmanuel Macron.
Estonia is the elected member of the UN Security Council by the end of this year.
Link to the full text of the speech (in English):
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