The TAKSNA conference, a collaborative platform uniting stakeholders from Tunisia, Indonesia, and the Voices for Just Climate Action (VAC) network, recently concluded in Tunis. This international gathering brought together a diverse array of participants – government officials, civil society leaders, academics, and climate activists – to confront the escalating challenges of climate change. With a focus on amplifying marginalized voices and driving equitable solutions, TAKSNA served as a crucible for knowledge sharing, strategic planning, and collaborative action.
"No One Left Behind": Centering Equity and Local Knowledge
A central theme resonated throughout the conference: climate justice demands that no one is left behind. Dr. Moh. Taqiuddin, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Mataram and Director of KONSEPSI, eloquently captured this sentiment, stating, "Climate justice means no one left behind; we must uplift unrepresented groups and vulnerable communities in our voices and actions toward a resilient society in the future." He urged participants to harness the power of local knowledge, recognizing that "climate justice requires the existence of local insight as a potential breakthrough—let’s harness our collective knowledge for transformative change."
Coastal Communities: Frontline Voices in the Climate Crisis
This call for inclusivity was echoed by Yuni Setyaningsih, a Development Studies Lecturer at Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) and Communication and Knowledge Brokering Advisor for C4ledger. Setyaningsih called attention to the plight of coastal communities grappling with the escalating impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels, intensified storms, and prolonged droughts. "Climate justice is not only about saving the planet," she asserted, "it's about ensuring that every community, especially coastal communities...have the right to thrive and be heard in the policymaking processes." She highlighted C4ledger's role in bridging the gap between scientific research and local communities, facilitating dialogue, and ensuring climate strategies are informed by ground-level realities.
"Keep Your Promise": Demanding Action from Global Leaders
The urgency of climate action was underscored by Philip Kilonzo, Head of Policy, Advocacy and Communications at the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (Kenya). Kilonzo spearheaded the "Keep Your Promise" campaign, launched in the wake of COP27 to hold political leaders accountable for their climate commitments. He called for a paradigm shift in climate finance, demanding ambitious, grant-based funding that prioritizes adaptation and a rapid transition away from fossil fuels. "We need trillions, not billions, to respond to the climate crisis," Kilonzo declared, emphasizing the inadequacy of current funding levels and the imperative of global solidarity.
Journalism: A Powerful Tool for Advocacy and Change
The conference also showcased the power of storytelling and advocacy. Febrilia Ekawati, Executive Director of the Way Seputih Conservation Foundation (YKWS), emphasized the critical role of journalism in driving climate action. "Journalism becomes an important tool for advocacy and behavioral change," she stated, highlighting the power of journalists to disseminate information, amplify local voices, and influence policy. Ekawati urged journalists to "voice the voiceless" and ensure climate solutions are equitable and inclusive.
Protecting Forests: A Cornerstone of Climate Justice
Adding a crucial perspective to the discourse was Adriano Maneo, a communications specialist from the Instituto Internacional de Educação do Brasil (IEB) and Knowledge Management expert with VAC. Maneo brought attention to the critical role of forest protection in mitigating climate change, particularly in Brazil, where deforestation is a major driver of emissions. He highlighted the vital role of indigenous peoples and traditional communities in safeguarding these ecosystems, underscoring the need to support and empower grassroots organizations in their fight to protect their territories and manage their land sustainably.
Through its diverse program of sessions and workshops, TAKSNA fostered a dynamic exchange of ideas and perspectives, amplifying the voices of those most affected by climate change and advocating for equitable solutions. By promoting community-driven adaptation strategies and building a strong international climate alliance, TAKSNA aims to catalyze transformative change and secure a just and sustainable future for all.
