NEW YORK, 25 September 2024 – Today, former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has publicly called on governments to negotiate a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty in a speech at the Global Citizen NOW summit during New York Climate Week.

This significant support underscores the growing global momentum behind the initiative, which seeks to negotiate a new treaty to complement the Paris Agreement by providing a binding plan to transition away from fossil fuels in a way that is fast, fair, and financed. 

With decades of experience in international diplomacy, the negotiation of multilateral frameworks and a deep commitment to climate action, his endorsement is a vital response to the escalating existential crisis that demands immediate and unprecedented action. Ban Ki-moon’s speech recognized the urgent need for a collaborative approach to mitigate the impacts of fossil fuels. By endorsing the Fossil Fuel Treaty proposal, he is calling on world leaders to unite around a comprehensive framework that effectively phases out the main cause of the climate crisis - oil, gas and coal - and paves the way for a sustainable future for all.

Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon: “The world has come together many times to tackle significant threats – from saving the ozone to phasing out landmines and negotiating a Nuclear Ban Treaty. Now, we must do it again, this time for fossil fuels – an industry that fuels the climate crisis, wars, biodiversity loss and air pollution. To protect what we love from this threat, a powerful group of countries is pushing to negotiate a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty — a mechanism that would end the expansion of new coal, oil, and gas projects and support a global transition that is not just fast, but also fair. Momentum made past treaties a reality – and we need it again. I urge governments and citizens to join me in endorsing the Fossil Fuel Treaty proposal today.”

Kumi Naidoo, who was announced as the new President of the Fossil Fuel Treaty Initiative earlier this week: “Having a leader of Ban Ki-moon’s calibre join us in this fight sends a powerful message that we are on the right path. His experience in negotiating pivotal agreements, including the Paris Agreement, has equipped him with a unique perspective on the power of international cooperation. He understands that the climate crisis is not just an environmental issue; it is also a matter of justice, equity, and responsibility. Climate change disproportionately impacts marginalized communities and developing nations. We share a vision of a world where environmental integrity and social equity go hand in hand, and the Fossil Fuel Treaty aligns with that vision. His support is a powerful call to unite nations around a clear and equitable framework aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels while ensuring that vulnerable communities are prioritized.”

Michael Sheldrick, Global Citizen’s Chief Policy, Impact, and Government Relations Officer, welcomed the announcement, saying: ”Fossil fuels are the greatest threat to human life and to our global ecosystems. Its production must stop if we want a livable and healthy planet.  The Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation  Treaty lays out a groundbreaking roadmap to transition away from oil, gas and coal in a way that is equitable and inclusive of people living in poverty.  Great leaders like Ban Ki-moon understand that.  The Paris Agreement, one the most important diplomatic compromises of our times is a reality thanks to his leadership.  But the goals of Paris can't come into full fruition without stopping the production of fossil fuels. I hope world leaders follow suit and join the call to negotiate a Treaty. Our future depends on it.”

Mitzi Jonelle-Tan, climate justice activist from the Philippines and member of the Fossil Fuel Treaty Initiative Steering Committee: “We, the youth, will inherit the consequences of today's decisions. This initiative represents hope and action for our generation and the future ones. It is our right to demand a livable planet, and having leaders like Ban Ki-moon standing with us gives us the confidence to fight for that future. The Fossil Fuel Treaty is our opportunity to change the course of history and ensure a just transition for those most affected by the fossil fuel industry. With his backing, we are even more determined to mobilize governments, organizations, and individuals to make this Treaty a reality.”

Ban Ki-moon has long championed the need for a just transition for communities and workers affected by the energy transition. By endorsing the Initiative, he aims to ensure that the voices of those disproportionately impacted by climate change are amplified in negotiations, aligning with his lifelong commitment to equity and human rights. He reinforces that the Fossil Fuel Treaty represents an essential pathway to a sustainable future, where the lessons of past negotiations can inform a clearer and more just framework for global climate action.