In the city of Odesa, Ukraine, the International Shield Organization for the Protection of Human Rights and Freedoms organized an international conference to discuss ways to combat environmental crimes under the slogan “Stop Environmental Crimes on Earth.” The conference witnessed broad participation from representatives of the Ukrainian government, the Deputy Governor of Odesa, as well as delegates from European, Asian, and African countries. Additionally, numerous human rights and humanitarian organizations, heads of institutions, unions, and civil society organizations from various Ukrainian cities attended. The event also brought together representatives of minorities and religious groups, distinguished academics, legal experts, journalists, university presidents, and global environmental specialists.
A Call for a World Free of Weapons of Mass Destruction
The conference was held in response to the growing environmental crimes threatening our planet and the systematic destruction of forests and natural resources. In his opening speech, the organization’s president, Dr. Saleh Daher, welcomed the attendees and emphasized the urgent need to unite efforts to tackle these challenges. He stated:
“Let us create a world free of lethal weapons—biological, hydrogen, nuclear, and other weapons of mass destruction—which could soon bring the world to an end and lead to the extinction of humanity. The devastating effects of these internationally banned weapons remain visible, as they have been used in multiple regions worldwide, leaving disastrous impacts on land, water, and air. These weapons have led to soil contamination, increased mortality rates, congenital disabilities, and the spread of diseases, especially among children and youth. The damage is not limited to humans alone but affects all living creatures on our planet. We are the only ones capable of making a change and redirecting the course toward what is right. The power of goodwill and humanity is stronger than evil and tyranny.”
Conference Resolutions and Recommendations
After extensive discussions on environmental crimes and their impact on the future of our planet, the conference committee and participants reached a set of crucial recommendations, including:
Sending an official letter to the UN Secretary-General, the European Council, the African Union, the Asian Union, the American Union, heads of states and monarchs, and international organizations demanding the establishment of a permanent, independent international committee to investigate environmental crimes.
Classifying environmental crimes as crimes against humanity and referring them to international courts for legal accountability.
Strengthening global efforts to combat environmental crimes and urging governments to take serious steps to reduce pollution and environmental degradation.
Key Topics Discussed at the Conference
The conference addressed several critical environmental issues, including:
Preventing environmental disasters on Earth
The urgent need to raise environmental awareness among people
Reducing excessive military expenditures and redirecting resources toward environmental protection
Banning the development, testing, and use of climate, nuclear, and biological weapons, along with other destructive weapons
Ensuring a clean and healthy planet for future generations
Conclusion: Signing of the Global Appeal Project
At the conclusion of the conference, all participants signed a Global Appeal Project, calling for international efforts to combat environmental crimes and enhance global cooperation to secure a sustainable future for the coming generations.
A Humanitarian Message from the International Shield Organization
Through this conference, the International Shield Organization reaffirmed its commitment to environmental protection and the fight against environmental crimes. The organization called on all governments and international bodies to take full responsibility for safeguarding the planet and to implement immediate measures to prevent further destruction of nature.
