In response to Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ encyclical and the United Nations’ call for governments to declare a climate emergency until neutrality is achieved, the International Movement of Catholic Students (IMCS) Pax Romana held its World Assembly who gathered in Chiang Mai, Thailand from 03 – 09 July 2023 on Global Climate Emergency at the newly constructed International Youth Training Centre focused on Theme: “Global Climate Emergency: Capacity building of tertiary students to be advocates for environmental, social, cultural, political and economic justice”. This assembly brought 103 participants (76 in-person and 27 online) from 33 different countries in Europe, Africa, Asia Pacific, Latin America and North America. Representing about 53.5% males and 46.5% females; this comprised Catholic Students Leaders, Observers, Facilitators, Interpreters as well as Chaplains & the Religious. 

IMCS Pax Romana appreciates the presence of the over 150 community members and Elders as well as the Non-Formal Education Office, Ministry of Industry, Communal Life of Love and Unity of the Mountain People (CLUMP), Dr Jitprapa Srioon, MANFA Institute & Chairman of the Learning Center for All Ages, Baan Saan Fun Pan Suk, Bro. Dr. Dechachai Sripicharn, Provincial, Brothers of St. Gabriel Foundation, the Good Shepherd Sisters, Most Rev. Francis Xavier Vira Arpondratana, Bishop of Chiang Mai Diocese and Secretary General, Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Thailand (CBCT), the Police, Dancers, the Catholic Students Network of Thailand (CSNT) and all those who joined us during the 2023 World Assembly Opening Ceremony.

Referencing the final declaration on the climate emergency, participants at the IMCS Pax Romana World Assembly discussed rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, loss of biodiversity, food and water sovereignty and health issues, how indigenous peoples are essential stewards of nature and biodiversity, and the smallest communities are the most affected by climate change. The effects of climate change are disproportionately felt by vulnerable communities, such as those in destitution and indigenous peoples. This included on-site visits and experience sharing in and around Chiang Mai such as a knowledge visit to a local canal, soil preservation and testing mobile applications and black soldier fly farming. 

In a further development, IMCS Pax Romana is committed to supporting environmental knowledge through research and development, providing its members with opportunities to represent the marginalized, advocating for environmental preservation, and collaborating with other organizations and stakeholders. Advocacy and education are essential for fostering a collective effort to combat climate change and promote change. It is essential to collaborate with vulnerable communities and relevant stakeholders to address their specific needs and preserve indigenous knowledge and practices that contribute to sustainable resource management. 

IMCS Pax Romana urges other Catholic Youth Organizations and communities around the world to respond to the Global Climate Emergency, as well as local authorities, governments, and international organizations to incorporate environmental protection into all of their efforts. Students of the Catholic faith must utilize their resources to persuade governing bodies to prioritize the Global Climate Emergency on their national and local agendas.

The call to action emphasizes collaboration with vulnerable communities and relevant stakeholders and urges Catholic youth organizations and communities worldwide to take action in response to the Global Climate Emergency.