…Fr. Peter Konteh
By Mohamed Konneh
According to Rev. Fr. Peter Konteh, climate crisis is a growing threat to peace and human security. Fr. Konteh was speaking during one green conference in Vienna recently.
‘’The reality of our times is becoming increasingly clear: the climate crisis is not only an environmental issue, but also a threat to peace and human security. As droughts, floods, rising sea levels, and unpredictable weather patterns devastate communities, competition over scarce resources like food, land, and water is intensifying. This often leads to migration, displacement, and tragically, conflict, the Catholic Priest said.
He said from a Catholic perspective, Pope Francis has consistently reminded the world in Laudato Si’ that “everything is connected.” When creation is harmed, humanity suffers — especially the poor and vulnerable who contribute the least to climate change but bear the greatest burdens.
‘’Caring for our common home is not an optional task; it is a moral obligation rooted in our faith. Protecting the environment is protecting life itself, safeguarding peace, and honoring God’s creation,’’ he said.
Fr. Konteh noted that from a Caritas perspective, they have witness firsthand how climate shocks fuel instability in communities we serve.
Where crops fail, hunger grows. Where water dries up, families are forced to move. Where livelihoods collapse, frustration and hopelessness can erupt into violence.
He said this is the more reason why Caritas continues to integrate climate action, peacebuilding, and humanitarian response in all their programs — from reforestation projects and clean water initiatives, to youth empowerment and community resilience training.
