The prestigious North-South Prize of the Council of Europe for 2022 was awarded this week in Lisbon, as announced by the organisation on its official site. It recognises two entities’ exceptional contributions in critical areas: community resilience during wartime and proactive environmental action.
In environmental advocacy, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was honoured for its impactful work raising global awareness about the urgent need to combat greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change. The Association of Ukrainian Cities (AUC) received the award for its dedicated efforts in integrating Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) within host communities amidst the ongoing war.
The prize was awarded in front of the Portuguese parliament in Lisbon on December 14, 2023. Jim Skea, the Chair of the IPCC, represented the organisation, underscoring its pivotal role in environmental protection.
“Our scientists have generously contributed their expertise and their time to deliver the most important and authoritative scientific assessments of our planet’s climate, laying out pathways for adaptation and means of mitigating climate change. Our assessment reports deliver up-to-date, robust scientific findings. They can empower policymakers in all countries and at all levels to shape climate policies and climate action,” he said in his acceptance speech.
“For us, today’s prize is an important recognition of this collective and truly global undertaking – one that brings together scientists from developing and developed countries to jointly assess the science related to climate change. We are grateful to the Jury for recognising this,” said Skea.
The AUC, represented by Vadym Boichenko, Mayor of Mariupol, has been instrumental in tackling the socio-economic challenges in wartime. The ceremony saw the presence of distinguished figures, including the President of the Portuguese Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, Edite Estrela, Vice-President of the Assembleia da República, and Ambassador Francesca Camilleri Vettiger, Chair of the Executive Committee of the North-South Centre.
Council of Europe Secretary General Marija Pejčinović Burić, in her speech, lauded the North-South Centre’s efforts in promoting global interdependence, solidarity, human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. She praised the laureates for embodying these values through their actions, positively impacting citizens’ lives and inspiring others.
The North-South Prize, focusing on fostering global solidarity and recognising outstanding contributions to societal and environmental causes, continues to honour those who strive to make a tangible difference in our world. (nsh)
Banner photo: Left to right: Mayor of Mariupol Vadym Boichenko, Secretary General of the Council of Europe Marija Pejčinović Burić, and IPCC Chair, Jim Skea (Source: Council of Europe)
