Ecosocial Diplomacy as a Pathway to Climate Justice & Global Peace

As the world grapples with escalating environmental crises, the link between climate justice and global peace is becoming increasingly evident.

Dr Benito Cao will explore the role of environmental diplomacy in reducing global tensions and fostering lasting positive peace by advancing climate justice and ecosocial citizenship.

Climate justice extends beyond environmental concerns to address human rights and equity issues, demanding that the burden of environmental degradation be equitably distributed and that marginalised communities, who are often the most affected by the climate crisis, receive support and reparations. Therefore, effective and ethical environmental diplomacy must incorporate inclusive frameworks that reflect the voices and experiences of these communities, ensuring that climate solutions are just and equitable. Central to this discussion must be ecosocial citizenship, a conception of citizenship that integrates environmental rights and responsibilities with social justice, encouraging individuals and communities to engage in environmental stewardship while advancing global social equity.

This concept can be found, for example, in Greta Thunberg's advocacy for urgent climate action and Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si', both of which emphasise the need for global solidarity and ethical stewardship of planet Earth.

Dr Cao advocates for a concept of ecosocial diplomacy as a way to foster a more equitable and therefore a more peaceful world.

In light of Australia's bid to co-host the UN Climate Change Conference of Parties in 2026 (COP 26) alongside Pacific nations, Dr Cao will reflect on the extent to which ecosocial diplomacy might play a role during the COP31 global climate talks.

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Part of our regular 'Diplomacy at the Bar' series, held with the support of the University of Adelaide. Where knowledge, networking and a glass of wine coalesce for a more relaxed way to get involved in international affairs.

We hope you come along to join the conversation and get to know some fellow international affairs aficionados at Adelaide's The Howling Owl.

Photo: Rio Miño, Galicia, Spain by Alejandro Piñero Amerio​