Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), reiterated the Organization’s commitment to supporting initiatives that integrate culture into efforts to combat the impacts of climate change and achieve environmental sustainability. He emphasized that successfully addressing the climate crisis requires a transformation in societal behavior, values, and collective awareness, with culture playing a pivotal role in fostering enlightened behavior grounded in ethical values.

Dr. AlMalik made these remarks on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, during a high-level panel discussion at COP29 titled “Culture for Climate: Engaging Youth to Drive Change in Practices.” The Event was co-organized by ICESCO, the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the International Dialogue for Environmental Action (IDEA) Public Association, and Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Culture. It featured prominent participants, including Her Royal Highness Princess Dana Firas, President of Petra National Trust, Ms. Aruna Francesca Maria Gujral, Director-General of ICCROM, and several young climate leaders.

Dr. AlMalik praised Azerbaijan’s leading initiative, “Culture for Climate,” dubbing it a testament to the central role of culture in addressing climate change by embedding environmental ethics into cultural and artistic practices. He noted that the initiative represents a serious call for collaborative solutions, utilizing creativity and the arts to promote sustainable lifestyles and foster cultural projects that connect sustainability with ethical behavior.

He further highlighted that culture is a key factor in supporting efforts to mitigate the negative effects of climate change, given its significant role in shaping communities’ perspectives on the environment. He underscored the importance of instilling a sense of responsibility in young people, encouraging their active participation, and fostering innovative ideas to bolster climate action and disseminate sustainable practices within societies.