
The Malta Declaration, developed by IAC in collaboration with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), was launched on Friday, 11 July, 2025, at the IAC Annual Conference. Named for the country where it launched, the declaration calls on counsellors and mental health organizations worldwide to respond to the growing mental health impacts of climate change.
As climate-related anxiety, trauma, and displacement intensify, counsellors have a vital role in promoting emotional resilience, culturally sensitive care, and sustainable solutions. The Declaration outlines key commitments to:
✅ Recognize the mental health consequences of climate change
✅ Equip counsellors with climate-informed tools and training
✅ Address global and local inequalities in mental health access
✅ Support practitioner well-being and self-care
✅ Advocate for climate action at all levels
✅ Foster international collaboration and knowledge-sharing
This global statement is informed by a comprehensive survey of counselling organizations across continents and is aligned with the goals of the World Health Organization (WHO), UNESCO, UNICEF, WMO, and other UN agencies.
Join the Movement
Counselling organizations, professionals, and allied groups are invited to endorse and implement the Malta Declaration to help build a more resilient, equitable, and mentally healthy world in the face of climate change.