June 1, 2022 – In the lead up to Stockholm+50, The Women’s Earth & Climate Action Network (WECAN) International is releasing a set of recommendations and action steps to governments and financial institutions attending the global conference to encourage ambitious action for global communities and the planet.

From June 2 - 3, governments, businesses, civil society, and global stakeholders will come together for the Stockholm+50 conference to commemorate 50 years since the first international UN summit on the environment, which led to the development of the 2030 Agenda and the global Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs). As one of the most significant governmental gatherings of 2022, the recommendations urge governments and financial institutions to advance the SDGs through immediate and ambitious policies and programs that uplift gender equity and advance climate justice. The action steps outlined in the recommendations call for comprehensive efforts including phasing out fossil fuels, uplifting human and Indigenous rights, and protecting global forests and biodiversity.

“The warning signs have been visible for far too long,” states Osprey Orielle Lake, WECAN Executive Director. “As the climate crisis and environmental degradation escalates, our communities, and the earth are suffering. We need governments and financial institutions to immediately align with the calls of science and civil society and take bold and urgent action. We are at a choice point for humanity. We know solutions exist to mitigate the worst impacts of interlocking crises, and that women are leading the way and should be supported in their efforts."

The recommendations are based on frameworks of diverse global movements that represent those experiencing the brunt of impacts from the climate crisis, environmental degradation, and COVID-19 pandemic. The document highlights the need for significant systemic change, “We must transition from an extractivist, colonial paradigm to a sustainable, globally-conscious paradigm of respect, restore and replenish.”

On June 2, at 1pm ET USA / 7pm Stockholm, WECAN International will convene a virtual public Associated Stockholm +50 Event, “Women Leading Solutions for a Healthy and Just Planet” to share the recommendations and also spotlight global women leaders’ strategies and solutions to protect nature and to secure resilient and healthy communities. Learn more about the event here.