The call for the full adoption of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty has gained momentum since COP28 when global leaders endorsed and recently endorsed by the Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon publicly urged governments to negotiate the treaty during his speech at the Global Citizen NOW summit, part of New York Climate Week deeming it a critical step in addressing the climate crisis.
The Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative seeks to foster international cooperation to end new fossil fuel developments, phase out existing production in line with the 1.5°C climate target, and develop plans to support workers, communities, and nations dependent on fossil fuels. These efforts aim to create sustainable and secure livelihoods as part of the global energy transition.
Ban Ki-moon emphasized that the world has successfully tackled significant global threats before—such as saving the ozone layer, banning landmines, and negotiating a nuclear ban treaty. He emphasized the importance of nations collectively pushing to negotiate a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty. This treaty would end the expansion of coal, oil, and gas projects and support a transition that is not only swift but also equitable.
Ban Ki-moon’s advocacy signals growing global support for the treaty, which is designed to complement the Paris Agreement by providing a binding framework for phasing out fossil fuels quickly, fairly, and with adequate financing. The Paris Agreement acknowledged the need to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C, a critical threshold for mitigating the impacts of climate change.
Michael Sheldrick, Global Citizen’s Chief Policy, Impact, and Government Relations Officer, stressed that achieving the Paris Agreement’s goals depends on halting fossil fuel production, worsening the climate crisis. Sheldrick noted that fossil fuel extraction increases the severity of extreme climate events and threatens marginalized communities and developing nations.
Kumi Naidoo, the newly appointed President of the Fossil Fuel Treaty Initiative, praised Ban Ki-moon’s support, highlighting the significance of his involvement. Naidoo stated that Ban’s endorsement sends a powerful message, underscoring that the fight against fossil fuels is the right path forward.
According to Naidoo, the climate crisis is not only an environmental issue but also one of justice, equity, and responsibility. He added, “With decades of experience in international diplomacy and a deep commitment to climate action, Ban Ki-moon’s endorsement is a vital response to an escalating existential crisis that demands immediate and unprecedented action.”
Ban Ki-moon’s speech called for a united global effort to mitigate the impacts of fossil fuels. By endorsing the Fossil Fuel Treaty proposal, he urged world leaders to collaborate on a comprehensive framework that phases out the primary drivers of the climate crisis—oil, gas, and coal—and paves the way for a sustainable future for all.
“The world now must come together again to address the fossil fuels. The fossil fuel industry drives the climate crisis, wars, biodiversity loss, and air pollution. Past momentum made previous treaties a reality, and we need that momentum again. I urge governments and citizens to join me in endorsing the Fossil Fuel Treaty proposal today,” Ban Ki-moon said.
Ban Ki-moon has long advocated for a just transition for communities and workers affected by the shift away from fossil fuels. His endorsement of the Fossil Fuel Treaty Initiative aims to amplify the voices of those disproportionately impacted by climate change, reflecting his lifelong commitment to equity and human rights. The treaty represents a crucial step toward a sustainable future, drawing on lessons from past negotiations to shape a more just framework for global climate action.
Mitzi Jonelle-Tan, a climate justice activist from the Philippines and member of the Fossil Fuel Treaty Initiative Steering Committee, emphasized that the initiative represents hope and action for current and future generations.
“It is our right to demand a livable planet, and having leaders like Ban Ki-moon standing with us gives us the confidence to fight for that future. The Fossil Fuel Treaty is our opportunity to change the course of history and ensure a just transition for those most affected by the fossil fuel industry. With his backing, we are even more determined to mobilize governments, organizations, and individuals to make this treaty a reality,” she said.
