Kathmandu. Experts have emphasized the critical role of the media in addressing climate change and advocating for climate justice. During a discussion held in Baku, Azerbaijan, on Thursday, titled “Nepali Media and COP29: Directions for Climate Justice”, participants urged Nepali media to amplify its efforts to make climate issues a global priority.
Dr. Sindhu Prasad Dhungana, Joint Secretary and Chief of the Climate Change Management Division at the Ministry of Forests and Environment, highlighted the government’s ongoing coordinated efforts to address climate change. “We are working to make people realize that climate change is a matter of concern for everyone,” he stated. “Positive engagement from all sectors is essential to achieve climate justice.”
Lal Bahadur Airi, General Manager of Gorkhapatra, called for the media to act as a strategic partner in turning climate change into a global phenomenon. Similarly, Krishna Poudel, Founder and Editor of Nepal News Agency, noted that while media coverage of climate change has increased, greater collaboration between the government, media, and relevant stakeholders could enhance the impact of climate advocacy.
Rajan Thapa, National Project Manager of WWF Nepal, stressed that the media has a vital role in bridging the gap between the government and the public. He added that raising public awareness and disseminating accurate information about climate issues should be a key focus for media outlets.
Participants of the conference advocated for the creation of policies aimed at strengthening Nepali media’s capacity to address climate change effectively. The event also featured virtual representation from Nepali journalists based in Baku, alongside participation from youth representatives.