The Liberal Democrats (Lib Dems) are intensifying their focus on climate issues as they aim to consolidate support among voters in the United Kingdom. Following a record acquisition of 72 seats during the 2024 general election, the party believes that a strong environmental platform will resonate with an electorate increasingly concerned about climate change.

Pippa Heylings, a Member of Parliament for South Cambridgeshire and the party’s spokesperson on energy and climate, expressed confidence in this strategy. “People are now voting for us because they see us as a pro-environmental party and movement,” she noted, emphasizing the party’s commitment to green policies. According to Heylings, the Lib Dems see an opportunity to fill a gap in political representation as other parties shy away from robust climate commitments.

Targeting Conservative Voters

The Lib Dems are particularly focused on attracting disillusioned voters from the Conservative Party, especially in areas previously dominated by them, known as the Blue Wall. Last year, the party made significant gains in these constituencies, regaining 18 seats in the southwest of England, a historical stronghold. Heylings claimed that the Conservative Party’s retreat from its commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050 has created “real discontent” among liberal-minded voters.

The current Conservative leadership, under Kemi Badenoch, has faced criticism for its reduction of environmental targets. Shadow Tory Energy Minister Andrew Bowie referred to climate targets as “arbitrary,” raising concerns about their economic implications. In contrast, the Lib Dems are advocating for an ambitious net zero goal as early as 2045, betting that voters will support a more proactive environmental stance.

Polling data from YouGov indicates that if elections were held today, the Lib Dems could gain an additional nine seats, reinforcing their position as a significant third party in British politics. Heylings remarked, “We’re actually the largest third party in a century. The Conservatives are in a tailspin.”

Balancing Environmental Goals with Economic Concerns

While the Lib Dems are committed to environmental issues, they also face the challenge of addressing voters’ immediate economic concerns. The party acknowledges that voters have “clear limits” on supporting climate policies, particularly if these lead to higher bills or taxes. This awareness comes as the Labour government grapples with rising energy costs, having previously promised to reduce bills by up to £300 annually.

In an effort to address economic anxieties, Lib Dem leader Ed Davey recently proposed breaking the link between gas prices and electricity costs. He believes this change would lower bills and encourage a transition to climate-friendly alternatives, such as heat pumps. “People aren’t seeing the benefit of cheap renewable power,” Davey stated, highlighting the need for practical solutions that align with green initiatives.

The Lib Dems are also looking to shift clean energy generation away from outdated subsidy agreements to more favorable terms, which they claim could reduce household bills by £200 a year. In a recent speech, Davey positioned the party as a defender of public interests against net-zero skeptics, asserting that their policies serve the British populace rather than external interests.

Despite the positive messaging around their climate agenda, the party faces accusations of hypocrisy from political opponents. Labour MP Josh MacAlister pointed out instances where Lib Dem representatives have opposed clean energy projects locally, raising doubts about their commitment to environmental progress.

In response, Heylings argued that the party’s commitment to both environmental standards and housing development can coexist, dismissing the “not-in-my-back-yard” sentiment often associated with local opposition to renewable energy projects. She stated, “You can do both house-building and nature recovery. You can do high environmental standards and they can still be affordable.”

As the Lib Dems work to solidify their green credentials, they have until the next election in 2029 to demonstrate to voters that they are genuinely committed to environmental issues, moving beyond perceptions of being a “dustbin” vote, as Labour veteran Diane Abbott once described. The path ahead is fraught with challenges, but the party’s climate-focused strategy could be key to reshaping its political fortunes in the coming years.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for intensified peace negotiations with Russia, announcing that Kyiv has proposed a new round of talks to take place next week. In a video address shared on social media platform X, Zelenskyy indicated that Rustem Umerov, recently appointed secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council, is advocating for a meeting with Russian officials.

“The pace of negotiations must be increased,” Zelenskyy stated, emphasizing the need for all efforts to focus on achieving a ceasefire. While the Ukrainian side has expressed readiness for a ceasefire contingent upon Russia halting its attacks, Russian President Vladimir Putin has thus far dismissed similar calls from various international leaders, including former U.S. President Donald Trump.

In the latest escalation, Russian forces launched a significant attack on Ukraine, deploying over 300 strike drones and 30 missiles against several Ukrainian cities on the night of March 1, 2024. This assault included strikes on the port city of Odessa, resulting in one fatality and leaving six others injured, according to Zelenskyy’s statements.

Zelenskyy also highlighted ongoing drone strikes on Moscow, reported by local officials and media outlets, indicating a broader conflict that extends beyond Ukrainian borders. Amid these tensions, the Ukrainian president reiterated his commitment to pursuing diplomatic avenues, stating, “A meeting at the level of leaders is needed to truly ensure peace — a really lasting one.” He expressed that Ukraine is prepared for such a discussion with Putin.

In addition to diplomatic efforts, Zelenskyy is working to implement the European Union’s 18th package of sanctions against Russia, seeking cooperation from European nations that support Ukraine but are not EU members. He also mentioned agreements with Trump regarding a new arms deal, which encompasses the procurement of U.S.-made weaponry and the export of Ukrainian drones, emphasizing the urgency of these arrangements.

With the situation remaining volatile and the prospect of peace talks looming, Zelenskyy’s administration appears determined to navigate these complex negotiations while addressing the immediate security concerns posed by ongoing Russian aggression. The international community watches closely, with many hoping for a resolution that will bring an end to the prolonged conflict.

A significant trend is emerging within Catholic communities worldwide, as a growing number of young people are either returning to or discovering the depths of their faith. This revitalization is particularly evident among those under 25, who are increasingly engaging with the Church and its teachings. According to a report by The Times in 2024, attendance at church among young adults aged 18-24 has risen from just 4 percent in 2018 to 16 percent in 2024. Notably, the figures for young men increased from 4 percent to 21 percent, while young women saw a rise from 3 percent to 12 percent.

The Catholic Church is responding to this resurgence with initiatives like World Youth Day, which gathers young people aged 18-35 every four years. In 2023, this event drew an impressive 1.5 million attendees to Lisbon, Portugal, for a final Mass celebrated by the late Pope Francis. The enthusiasm observed at such events highlights a vibrant community eager to express their faith.

As a newly qualified primary school teacher in my mid-20s, I am enthusiastic about being part of this movement. Currently, I am preparing to join Bishop Fintan Gavin and 50 other young individuals from the Diocese of Cork and Ross for the Jubilee of Youth pilgrimage event in Rome, welcoming the invitation from our new pope, Leo XIV. Being part of these gatherings is invigorating and fosters a sense of belonging among participants.

Online Catholic influencers and digital missionaries are also playing a crucial role in connecting faith with contemporary culture. They creatively engage the younger generation, making the Church’s teachings more accessible. Nonetheless, there is a challenge: many Catholic communities function like social media algorithms, rewarding only those who actively seek them out. While those who engage can find various activities, including pilgrim hikes, prayer communities like Youth 2000, and events such as CONNECT in Cork City, those outside these circles often remain unaware of such opportunities.

The Church has an opportunity to enhance its outreach to young adults by actively sharing and displaying their faith in the wider community. By doing so, they can recharge the “faith battery” of those who attend. Returning from these events often leaves participants with renewed hope and vigor for the Church’s future. This experience encourages attendees to invite friends and discuss their faith journeys, fostering a supportive environment.

To attract more young people, the Church must venture beyond its walls, engaging with individuals in schools, colleges, and workplaces. It should listen attentively to the hopes, doubts, and convictions of young adults. In an age where knowledge is readily available, blind faith is no longer sufficient. The Church must be willing to face scrutiny and confidently articulate its core values.

Young Catholics are eager to find joy in their faith communities. They can draw inspiration from figures like Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, who exemplified how a joyful faith can enrich a young person’s life. Blessed Carlo, soon to be canonized, was a 15-year-old who balanced his love for soccer and video games with a commitment to daily Mass. Blessed Pier Giorgio, who died on July 4, 1925, exemplified a zest for life and a dedication to helping the less fortunate, and he is also set for canonization later this year.

The Church should prioritize creating spaces where young individuals can grapple with profound questions. Inviting young people to participate in community efforts and support charitable organizations like the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul can foster a sense of belonging. The goal is not to reinvent the Church but to rediscover its essence—bold in truth, courageous in justice, radical in mercy, and steadfast in love.

Young people are looking for the fullness of the Gospel, not a diluted version. They desire a Church that clearly addresses spiritual matters while also confronting pressing issues such as climate change, mental health challenges, and social isolation. The late Pope Francis articulated this need during World Youth Day in 2023, urging, “Will the mighty of the earth listen to this youthful enthusiasm that wants peace?”

The Church is at a pivotal moment, with a chance to not only welcome young people but to walk alongside them, challenging and being challenged in return. As the revival continues, the active participation of the youth will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Catholic Church.

During a recent discussion at the MacGill Summer School in Glenties, Co Donegal, former Minister for European Affairs Lucinda Creighton expressed her concern over the current state of Irish politics. She argued that the national conversation is dominated by trivial issues, rather than focusing on substantial governance challenges. Creighton stated, “We’re more interested in the gossipy aspect of our parliamentary politics, rather than the nuts and bolts of how we’re governing our country.”

Creighton emphasized that the political system is currently “not fit for purpose,” noting that discussions often revolve around irrelevant topics, such as who may occupy the Áras in November. She criticized the “gossipy aspect” of politics, suggesting that it detracts from addressing pressing issues, including the ongoing housing crisis and the challenges in the energy sector.

Challenges of Governance and Leadership

According to Creighton, the inefficiencies in governance stem from an overwhelming need for caution. “Everything is, as far as I can see, government is completely strangled by the need to cover our backside and have multiple reviews about every single decision that’s ever been taken,” she remarked. This environment fosters a culture of risk aversion that hampers effective leadership and decision-making.

Creighton pointed out that this cautious approach contributes to the persistent housing crisis, which lacks “any clear, logical solution.” Furthermore, she highlighted issues within the electricity grid, describing it as “not fit for purpose” and contributing to unmet renewable energy goals.

She attributed some of these challenges to the one-year budget cycle, arguing that long-term planning is not integrated into the electoral system. “If we’re to get to grips with the sort of radical change that is happening around us right now, we have to think about how we change our politics and our system of governance,” Creighton urged. She stressed the need to equip policymakers to handle emerging challenges effectively.

Understanding Voter Concerns

In her talk entitled “Why is Liberalism Failing?”, Creighton also discussed the disconnect between political parties, particularly those on the center-left, and their constituents. She noted that research indicates a growing perception of condescension from these politicians towards voters. “If somebody expresses concern about immigration, they’re labeled far right,” she explained. This labeling, she argued, alienates voters and drives them towards extreme political alternatives.

Creighton emphasized the importance of listening to voters’ concerns rather than dismissing them. She suggested that many of these individuals experience insecurity and discomfort with rapid societal changes, which should be acknowledged rather than scorned by politicians.

Additionally, Creighton addressed the Irish government’s decision to dismantle the Triple Lock system, which currently requires multiple approvals for Irish military involvement abroad. She expressed pride in this decision, describing the Triple Lock as “an ineffectual tool” that hinders effective action in an increasingly polarized global environment.

“It’s going to be increasingly difficult in this world of authoritarianism and polarization to get things done through multilateral organizations such as the United Nations,” she warned. Creighton advocated for the necessity of forming a “coalition of the willing” to address critical issues effectively.

Overall, Lucinda Creighton’s remarks at the MacGill Summer School highlighted a pressing need for a more engaged and responsible political discourse in Ireland. Her insights resonate with ongoing concerns about governance and the importance of addressing voters’ genuine issues.