On May 6, Archbishop Bernardito Auza, Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the UN gave a during the Fourteenth Session of the United Nations Forum on Forests, taking place at UN headquarters in New York from May 6-10.

In his statement, Archbishop Auza said that it is becoming increasing clear that forests need attention and protection against the rapid depleting of their biodiversity and endangering the vital relations that could alter the entire ecosystem not to mention impact all those who depend on forests for their dwelling, livelihood, cultural heritage and social structure. Because of increased urbanization, he said, many can overlook or downplay forests’ irreplaceable benefit. All decisions must be made with the full and meaningful participation of those most impacted by them, who ought to be protagonists of environmental conservation with their rights and values respected. He stressed in particular the situation of the Amazon and mentioned the upcoming Synod of Bishops for the Pan-Amazon Region and said that the Holy See supports the Forum’s efforts to foster an integral ecology, stating that better management of forests is crucial in our care for our common home and those who live in it. 

The statement can be found here.