Bishops urge end to exploitation as EU-Africa meeting approaches

Catholic bishops from Europe and Africa have issued a joint statement expressing concern over Africa becoming a "battleground for external interests," particularly regarding land, resources, and Europe's climate agenda. The Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union (COMECE) and the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) emphasized a shift in European priorities away from solidarity with fragile regions towards geopolitical and economic interests.

"Africa is being asked to sacrifice its ecosystems and communities to help Europe meet its decarbonization goals — whether through massive land deals for so-called ‘green’ energy projects, the expansion of carbon offset plantations, or the outsourcing of industrial agriculture’s toxic inputs and waste. This is not partnership. This is not justice," they stated.

The statement was released before a meeting between EU and African Union foreign ministers on May 21, aimed at reviewing multilateral aims since a summit in February 2022. Alessandro Di Maio, COMECE's spokesman, reported positive reactions from European Commission and Parliament officials, indicating continued advocacy at upcoming EU-AU consultations.

Di Maio mentioned that COMECE's presidency would discuss these issues with Pope Leo XIV on May 23. The bishops aim to foster fair relations with Africa, advocating for partnerships that listen to "the cries of the earth and the cries of the poor."

The bishops criticized the EU's Global Gateway project for replicating past extractive patterns that prioritize European corporate aims over African needs. They highlighted concerns about treating land, water, seeds, and minerals as commodities rather than common goods.

Recommendations include ending Africa's dependency on imported fertilizers and genetically modified seeds while urging investment in agroecology. The bishops condemned hazardous pesticides banned in Europe but sold in Africa as a "grave injustice" and called for action against land grabbing.

They expressed disturbance over using African territory for Europe's resource needs and climate ambitions: "Africa does not need charity... What it needs is justice."

Di Maio emphasized the Catholic Church's strong presence in Africa provides deep insight into regional challenges: “We hope European and African foreign ministers will have the foresight to take into account the input and contributions coming from the church.”

Jonathan Luxmomore reports for OSV News from Oxford, England.