A Landmark Achievement for the Palestinian Farmers Union and Regional Climate Action
On December 2–3, 2024, the Mediterranean Observatory of Climate Change was officially inaugurated during a high-profile conference held at the Ecole Polytechnique de Tunisie, Tunisia. Organized by the University of Barcelona, Carthage University in Tunisia, Catalan Action for Peace (Barcelona-based NGO), Palestinian Farmers Union (Palestinian Farmers Union), and Khadouri University in Palestine, the conference was titled “A Space for Cooperation, Innovation, and Regional Resilience.” This pivotal event brought together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the Mediterranean to address pressing climate challenges and explore innovative solutions for regional resilience.
A defining highlight of the conference was the election of Abbas Milhem, Director of the Palestinian Farmers Union (PFU), as the General Secretary of the Mediterranean Observatory of Climate Change. This election is a significant milestone for the PFU, reflecting the critical role Palestinian farmers play in fostering climate resilience and sustainable agriculture in the Mediterranean region. It also underscores the recognition of Palestine’s contributions to addressing global climate challenges.
Conference Highlights
Day 1: Setting the Stage for Regional Cooperation
• Official Inauguration The conference began with an inaugural session featuring key figures, including Prof. Nadia Mzoughi (University of Carthage), Mr. Ra’fat Khndqji (PFU President), and ambassadors from Spain and Palestine. The session emphasized the urgency of collaboration in combating climate change impacts across the Mediterranean.
• Panel Discussions
o Panel 1: The Mediterranean as an Epicentre of Climate Change Experts, including Abbas Milhem, discussed the region’s vulnerabilities, with a focus on biodiversity loss and water resource challenges.
o Panel 2: Climate Adaptation and Sustainable Agriculture Thought leaders explored innovative agricultural practices and water management strategies to mitigate climate risks.
• Workshops and Think Tanks Attendees participated in interactive sessions to define the Observatory’s objectives, identify priorities, and develop strategic action plans for regional resilience.
Day 2: Networks, Innovation, and Action Plans
• Focus on Nature-Based Solutions and Community Engagement
o Panel 3: Highlighted the importance of biodiversity conservation and sustainable water management as pivotal climate solutions.
o Panel 4: Abbas Milhem and others discussed the role of NGOs, civil society, and administrations in climate adaptation, showcasing successful collaborative efforts.
• Strategic Roadmap The day concluded with workshops aimed at establishing working groups and operational networks for the Observatory, ensuring a coordinated approach to its mission.
Significance of Abbas Milhem’s Election
The election of Abbas Milhem as General Secretary positions the PFU at the forefront of regional climate action. This leadership role enables the union to:
1. Elevate Palestinian voices in international climate forums.
2. Advocate for sustainable agricultural practices and equitable resource management across the Mediterranean.
3. Strengthen collaboration with regional and international partners to enhance the resilience of Palestinian farmers, who face unique challenges due to occupation and climate stressors.
Looking Ahead
The Mediterranean Observatory of Climate Change represents a transformative platform for cooperation and innovation. Under Abbas Milhem’s leadership, the Observatory is poised to drive impactful initiatives that not only address the climate crisis but also foster solidarity and resilience among Mediterranean nations.
This achievement reaffirms the Palestinian Farmers Union’s commitment to global climate justice and sustainable development, positioning it as a key player in shaping the future of the Mediterranean region.