Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar to Address COP28 in Dubai

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, November 29, 2023

Globally renowned humanitarian and spiritual leader, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, recognized for his unwavering commitment to causes like peace, environmental stewardship, meditation and education, is slated to deliver a keynote address on the 9th of December, 2023 during COP28 at the Faith Pavillion.

In close collaboration with the COP28 Presidency, UNEP and the Muslim Council of Elders have established a strategic multi-partnership with Faith Based Organizations (FBOs) and civil society partners to host an unprecedented Pavilion in the Blue Zone at this year’s COP28 which will serve as an exclusive area where individuals of diverse faiths, traditions, and points of view can unite in an effort to improve the future of humanity and planet Earth. Gurudev will explore the significant impact that FBOs can have on galvanizing grassroots efforts to advocate for sustainable initiatives and combat climate change.

As the founder of one of the world’s largest volunteer driven organizations and the originator of the Sudarshan Kriya ® – a powerful breathing technique that harmonizes the mind, body and emotions – the attendance of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravishankar at COP28 represents a pivotal juncture where spirituality and climate action converge. His upcoming address at COP28 solidifies his position as a notable contributor to the ongoing dialogue concerning climate change and will focus on the profound impact that faith based organizations have and how they can act as catalysts for constructive transformation, cultivating a collective sense of accountability and dedication to the establishment of a sustainable future. Earlier this year, in September, over 1.1 million people came together over three days to listen to Gurudev at the Art of Living Foundation’s World Culture Festival at the National Mall in Washington DC.

Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said: “Spirituality, at its core, transcends borders and unites hearts. It breaks down the walls of division, inviting us to see the world as one family; inspiring collaboration and understanding. As we confront the urgent challenge of climate change, let us recognize that the collective strength of humanity lies not only in technological advancements but also in the transformative power of meditation. Meditation empowers individuals to awaken their innate potential, fostering a sense of interconnectedness and compassion. It is the key to unlocking a better version of ourselves and, consequently, creating better citizens who are not only environmentally conscious but actively engaged in sustainable actions. Together, as a global community, we have the potential to overcome the challenges of climate change, transcending boundaries and nurturing a world where every individual is empowered to be a guardian of our planet.”

The Art of Living Foundation, which Gurudev founded in 1981, has led a remarkable global movement for pro-environment initiatives and inspired millions of volunteers to participate in green initiatives which include river rejuvenation projects, afforestation drives, promoting renewable energy and sustainable agricultural programs. These worldwide initiatives have achieved unprecedented environmental milestones including planting 81 million trees, building 1000 biogas plants, electrifying 758 villages through solar energy, training 2.2 million farmers in sustainable farming and reviving over 70 dried-up rivers and 1000 plus depleted lakes. Through its SSRVM trust, the foundation also runs a chain of more than 1100 free schools and 90 urban schools  imparting education to over 130,000 students at the primary and secondary levels along with Ayurvedic Medical Colleges and the Sri Sri University, which are some of the highest ranked institutions in India. In 2021, the foundation released a KPMG Assured “India Impact Report” that highlights four decades of the organization’s efforts to implement the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals at the grassroots level in India through the ABC Framework of Awareness, Belongingness, and Commitment.

Prior to his keynote speech at COP28, Gurudev will address a free-for-all event, on the evening of the 8th of December at the Al Maktoum Stadium in Dubai. Expected to attract almost 12000 people, this session aims to reach a broader audience, inviting individuals from all walks of life to gain insights into the transformative power of spiritual wisdom in navigating the challenges of the modern world.