A liberal Christian group is taking a bold stance against the fossil fuel industry. The World Council of Churches (WCC), which represents over 352 churches globally, has released a handbook urging its members to combat what it calls “climate disinformation.” The group is encouraging lawsuits against financial institutions that it believes contribute to the climate crisis.
Published in March, the handbook is titled “Hope for Children Through Climate Justice: Legal Tools to Hold Financiers Accountable.” It argues that advocacy alone is not enough to address the ongoing climate emergency. Julio Murray, an Anglican bishop from Panama, emphasizes the need for legal action, stating that the rise in carbon emissions is largely driven by the fossil fuel industry’s expansion.
The WCC’s call to action comes at a time when many financial institutions are distancing themselves from climate policies. This shift has been influenced by Republican lawmakers questioning how these companies are dealing with coal and gas industries. The handbook suggests that strategic lawsuits could disrupt fossil fuel companies by reducing their financial support and, consequently, their emissions.
The guide lists various potential targets for litigation, including banks, asset managers, and pension funds. It even proposes using children as the face of these lawsuits, highlighting the impact of climate change on younger generations. The goal is to hold financial institutions accountable for their investments in fossil fuels, which the WCC believes could lead to a shift towards cleaner energy options.
The handbook also addresses the International Criminal Court, urging it to consider legal reforms to combat climate disinformation and its connection to fossil fuel financing. Critics, like Jason Isaac from the American Energy Institute, argue that the WCC is misusing Christianity for political ends. He claims that the handbook promotes a radical agenda that could harm the very energy sources that support modern life and alleviate poverty.
While the WCC uses biblical references to support its climate justice stance, it has faced criticism for its less definitive views on other social issues, such as abortion and sexuality. For instance, some of its resources appear to endorse abortion access and advocate for inclusivity regarding LGBTQ+ clergy.
The WCC is primarily funded by its member churches but also receives substantial support from government sources. Recently, the European Commission contributed over $238,000, along with additional funding from Germany and Switzerland.
As the debate over climate action continues, the World Council of Churches is positioning itself as a vocal advocate for radical change, urging its members to take legal steps to address the climate crisis.