We write as individuals with affectionate connections to the British Council, to express both mystification and deep concern about a change in its policy. While until recently work on climate change represented one of three major programme areas of the council, it is our understanding that this has now changed, and dedicated staffing and funding for projects have been radically cut, to something close to cessation by the end of this financial year, even if some work may continue on an ad hoc basis.
The council has had an extensive and structured programme aimed at young people, educators, journalists, and faith, community and cultural leaders across the world, particularly in China, India and sub-Saharan Africa. As far as we are aware it has proved very effective, reaching many millions of people via a variety of media. As the climate crisis proves ever more intractable in geo-political terms it is hard to imagine a more important activity than raising awareness in countries whose governments need every encouragement to take radical action. There is no better vehicle for this than the British Council, with its enormous expertise in cultural relations and unique reach into schools and cultural organisations, local and national governments, and international organisations large and small.
One of the most prominent projects has been with young people. The Climate Generation is a programme energising and supporting many "climate champions" to undertake projects involving decision-makers locally, nationally and internationally. Many who have met some from this inspiring group, including politicians and others attending the COP meetings held every December, have remarked on the much deeper meaning that their involvement gives to the extraordinary blend of sterility and hope that the international climate negotiations embody. Young people are going to inherit our leavings; they need our support right now, as they are one of the main voices for the vitally needed changed perspective on the world.
In the UK perhaps more than anywhere else in the world a recognition of the importance of this subject is rapidly becoming inextricably embedded in our cultural and public life. The signatories of this letter tell different stories and speak with different voices; collectively we represent part of this growing movement, one that recognises our profound responsibility to respond to the times in which we live.
It seems extraordinary that the British Council was playing a vigorous part in this but has chosen to reduce it, and we invite the chair and trustees to reconsider their decision as a matter of urgency.
Simon Beaufoy, Caryl Churchill, Siobhan Davies, Jonathan Dove, Maggie Gee, Jay Griffiths, Ian McEwan, Robert Macfarlane, Andrew Motion, Cornelia Parker, Philip Pullman, Lemn Sissay
Source: http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/jul/14/british-council-climate-projects
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