African ministers at the 20th Ordinary Session of the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN) have unanimously agreed to elevate ecocide, the mass destruction of ecosystems, as a top environmental priority for the 2025–2027 period.
This marks the first time the issue has been formally recognised by a UN-affiliated forum as a continental strategic focus. The announcement was made by H.E. Dr. Abu Bakr Al-Harim, Libya’s Minister of Environment and AMCEN President.
A special committee will be created to examine whether ecocide should be legally classified as a crime, especially within international frameworks like the International Criminal Court (ICC). This bold move lays the groundwork for holding perpetrators of environmental destruction legally accountable.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has led the advocacy on this front, having already endorsed the global campaign to criminalise ecocide. The DRC, joined by the Republic of Congo and Burundi, reiterated their support during national statements at AMCEN.
“This is a practical step toward ensuring those responsible for environmental devastation are held to account,” said Ève Bazaiba, DRC’s Minister of Environment.
This recognition brings hope to African communities most impacted by land grabbing, illegal mining, deforestation, and pollution. Naming ecocide a priority, Africa sends a clear message: environmental destruction will no longer go unpunished.
As advocates for grassroots environmental justice, COTFONE celebrates this milestone. It strengthens our call to protect ecosystems, defend community rights, and demand accountability for crimes against nature.
#StopEcocide #EnvironmentalJustice #AMCEN #AfricaRising #COTFONE #ClimateJustice #NatureRights #EcocideLaw
