Sustainability and taking care of our earth has been a priority of FEMYSO since our organisation’s existence. Today on the 22nd of April 2021 FEMYSO once again joins the global community in observing Earth Day.
This day represents a movement by people for people. Raising awareness around environmental issues which have a significant influence on many communities all over the globe is one of Earth Day’s main objectives. It is important to remember that the people who suffer most due to climate change are not living in the developed world, but rather in developing countries. The climate change hits already struggling communities hardest with its extreme weathers. It cannot be negated that climate change which causes severe damage to the earth is caused by human interventions.
“Do not pollute the earth after it has been so wholesomely set in order” (Qur’an 7:56). It is an obligation for Muslims to look after the earth that was given to us and to prevent it from getting polluted. It was subdued by God to humans for enjoyment as well as productive use. Hence to treat the earth in a sustainable way is believed as a duty upon humans, for the sake of the earth being God’s creation and for the sake of allowing this generation and the generations to come to harness and appreciate all that earth has to offer.
Fortunately, more and more young people have been prioritising the inclusion of climate action in the political sphere. To support these young individuals FEMYSO is holding an International Climate Action Activity titled “Step-Up and Take Action”. More than 30 young Muslim activists will be taking part in a week-long training to enhance their skills and knowledge on climate advocacy, as well as developing new creative youth-led initiatives. This will empower young people to take the lead in the dialogue with policy- and decision-makers in topics concerning the protection of the earth.
We at FEMYSO strive to equip young individuals with the necessary tools required to have a positive and sustainable impact on the preservation of the earth. We hope to see the hard work of these activists yield fruit, and benefit all of humanity and our environment.
[ENDS]
Notes
- FEMYSO (est. 1996) is a network organisation for 32 Muslim youth and student organisations across 20 European countries, and is the leading voice for European Muslim youth, developing and empowering them, and working to build a more diverse, cohesive and vibrant Europe.
- For more information or requests please email media@femyso.org.