A new pathway for cooperation

A GLOBAL SUPPORT BASE intended to ensure the implementation of the objectives and commitments resulting from the Earth Summit has been formally established. The "Earth Council" is an independent standing commission of politicians, diplomats, scientists, journalists and others. It aspires to become the centre of a global citizens network, acting on behalf of civic society to further the process of sustainable development.

It is intended that the Council be a centre for public dialogue, reportage and dissemination of information on key events and issues. Complementing and facilitating the work of NGOs should enable it to act as an effective monitoring body whereby it could sound "early warnings" on potential environmental disasters.

The Earth Council organizing committee met in early March to finalize institutional structure and draft a text of aims and objectives. Headquarters for the Council Secretariat, directed by Alicia Barcena Ibarra, have been provided by the Costa Rican government.

Initial funding for Earth Council activities has been provided by ECOFUND '92, a private not-for-profit foundation which, with the participation of the private sector, raised money for the Earth Summit. Current funds, held by the Canadian Earth Foundation, should assist in activities for the next year or so. The Council intends to find its own innovative ways to fund its proposed Earth Fund.

At an organizing committee meeting in October 1992, Maurice Strong stated that the Earth Council is not intended to be a confrontational organization or an advocate of any particular ideology. Rather it will be committed to objectivity, transparency, participation and dialogue amongst diverse interests and points of view. Out of this will evolve evaluations of the progress of governments and others in achieving sustainable development and recommendations for improvements.

It remains to been seen whether a council of "experts" will prove an appropriate representation of the views and opinions of the global civic community. Whether governments will give heed to its evaluations and recommendations is another question. Many have shown themselves adept at ignoring vocal dissatisfaction and criticism from both their own citizens and the international community.

That having been said, any attempt at establishing an objective and dispassionate council is commendable and would make a welcome change from the bickering dissension that invariably ensues when more than one nation groups together.

The Earth Council, though, must beware of taking too passive a role. Our slow and all too painful progress toward a society that encompasses justice, health and equity does not allow time for yet another indulgent forum in which words come before action. Too many paths are too clearly defined for us to ignore the immediate actions that are needed.

Further information

The Earth Council Secretariat, PO Box 323-1001, San José, Costa Rica.

Published Issue 8, April 1993