PAN Africa at the IPEN 2026 Global Meeting: An African Commitment to a Toxics-Free World
From April 20 to 26, 2026, the city of Palawan in the Philippines hosted the global meeting of the IPEN network (International Pollutants Elimination Network). This landmark event brought together more than 110 members from over 125 countries, representing Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas. PAN Africa took part in this major international gathering.
A Global Framework for Strengthened Advocacy
For one week, IPEN members worked together to develop regional and global strategies to protect people and ecosystems from toxic substances. Discussions highlighted the need to strengthen existing international treaties, including the Minamata Convention on Mercury and the ongoing negotiations toward a global treaty on plastic pollution.
Key Themes at the Heart of the Discussions
Exchanges focused on three major issues: plastics and their chemical additives, hazardous pesticides still widely used in many countries, and heavy metals such as mercury and lead. The issue of endocrine disruptors and the protection of community health also featured prominently in the discussions.
Members shared their successes in banning hazardous substances, presented scientific data on the impacts of toxic chemicals, and highlighted community-led initiatives carried out in the field.
Africa as a Full Actor
PAN Africa's presence at this meeting reaffirms the African continent's place in global dynamics around environmental health protection. It was an opportunity to share the specific challenges faced by African communities exposed to industrial, agricultural, and plastic pollution, and to strengthen ties with international partners.
Outlook
At the close of this week of exchanges, IPEN members leave with renewed commitments to intensify their work at national and regional levels. PAN Africa continues its advocacy efforts against hazardous pesticides, heavy metals, and plastic pollution in Africa, drawing on the collective momentum of this global network.
