The Inter-American Court of Human Rights' Advisory Opinion on the human rights obligations of States in the Americas to tackle the climate emergency is a landmark step forward for the region - and beyond.
As the impact of climate change becomes ever more visible across the world, the Court is clear: people have a right to a stable climate and a healthy environment. States have a bedrock obligation under international law not to take steps that cause irreversible climate and environmental damage, and they have a duty to act urgently to take the necessary measures to protect the lives and rights of everyone - both those alive now and the interests of future generations.
My Office, which has extensively documented the human rights impact of climate change, offered its views to the Inter-American Court of Human Rights as it considered its Advisory Opinion.
Armed with the Court's guidance, and that of others, including the UN Human Rights Office, States should be in no doubt about the existence and scope of their human rights obligations in this area. There is an urgent need to take meaningful action - through legislation, policy change, resource mobilisation and international cooperation - to stop the climate crisis from worsening and ensure those affected have access to justice. I once again urge them to do so.
