The Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) and the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union (COMECE) have issued a joint statement ahead of the May 21 EU Ministers conference in Brussels, urging Europe to shift from offering charity to pursuing justice in its dealings with Africa.
The bishops called for partnerships built on mutual respect, human dignity, and environmental care, criticizing the current relationship for prioritizing Europe’s geopolitical and economic interests over Africa’s real needs. They lamented how African land, water, seeds, and minerals have been commodified for profit, especially to support Europe’s green energy goals, often to the detriment of local ecosystems and communities.
They condemned the export of chemicals banned in Europe to Africa and called for an immediate ban on Highly Hazardous Pesticides, emphasizing the need to protect local seed systems to ensure food sovereignty.
The Church leaders urged the EU to end double standards and place African dignity at the core of its partnership with the African Union.
