The Intersection of Environment, Poverty and Migration. An Italian perspective

Connections exist between environmental injustice and worker exploitation in Italian agriculture, as well as between violence against women and violence against the Earth. As many do, the Waldensian Church in Italy sees abuses, such as low wages, unsafe working conditions and illegal toxic industrial waste disposal, as “modern slavery” and a commodification of people. A theological re-imagination is needed of concepts like “sin” and “hope” in the context of liberation that emphasises the interconnectedness of all creation and the experiences of marginalised communities. Protestant churches in Italy’s programmes, e.g., “Being Church Together” and “Mediterranean Hope” that support migrant and refugee routes and efforts to foster a collective consciousness of environmental justice are discussed. Finally, referring to Nussbaum, Pulcini, and Butler’s acknowledgement of our interdependence, shared humanity, and the necessity of building nonviolent alliances, compassion intertwined with justice through education and ethical reflection is called for en route to a more just society. Keywords: Women, Climate justice, Predatory economy, Intersectionality, Co-breathing