October 14, 2025
I have just returned from the World Congress for the Defense of Mother Earth, held in Caracas, Venezuela from October 9-10, 2025, the conference was attended by 3000 delegates from 62 countries.
The world conference, organized under the auspices of the Venezuelan government, brought together world leaders, social movements, scientists, youth and policymakers to discuss urgent environmental challenges and the future of sustainable living. During the opening session, President Nicolás Maduro called for concrete, collective action to defend life on Earth.
A conference full of color, joy and optimism. Arriving at the conference venue, I was impressed by the large participation of indigenous people from many countries, all in their local costumes. People who defend their lands, their language, their seeds and their traditions.
Everyone wanted to be photographed with everyone, many came and asked to be photographed with me, they were very happy to meet a Greek and some even offered me gifts simply because I am from Greece.
The topics discussed.
The climate crisis and the dominant socio-economic model. Biodiversity at risk.
The rights of Mother Earth.
Socio-environmental conflicts and human rights.
Pollution and waste.
Sustainable economy.
Environmental education and culture.
Intergenerational justice and youth.
International alliances and specific actions.
The message of the conference is that if we are concerned about the sustainable future of the planet, we must start actions now. Actions that unite people, because it concerns us all, no matter how far apart we live, because we all have the same home.
“Together for a Living Planet The World Conference for Mother Earth does not end with the end of the event. Every decision you make afterwards is part of the conference. Every tree you plant, every plastic you avoid, every voice you raise. Because the Earth cannot wait. Neither can we.”
In the photo I am with Eugenio Pérez, from the Piaroa Indigenous People, Amazonas State, Venezuela
