STATEMENT INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT LAW ORGANIZATION
28TH SESSION OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL
FULL-DAY DISCUSSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS & CLIMATE CHANGE
(HRC res. 26/27)
06 March 2015
Palais des Nations, Geneva, Switzerland
Delivered by Hector Guerra
Mr. President,
Much work remains to advance equitable, transparent, inclusive and integrated measures to address climate change. Law and policy responses are still weak and embryonic, lacking the bold ambition that is necessary for climate justice, as well as concrete mechanisms and adequate support for implementation on the ground.
Beyond the formal aspects of the legal process, the rule of law speaks to justice, especially for the most vulnerable people who are already feeling the terrible impacts of climate change.
Weak regulations, institutions and redress measures are foreclosing opportunities for more sustainable development on all levels, leading to inequitable, un-transparent and ultimately, ineffective climate policies.
Rule of law responses offer principled approaches and legal strategies to support climate mitigation, adaptation and finance for sustainable development.
In the context of ongoing negotiations to shape the new international climate regime, rule of law principles can make an important contribution to global climate justice.
Access to justice, supported by broad stakeholder engagement is crucial to drafting and implementing comprehensive and inclusive laws and policies for climate-compatible development.
Legal certainty can help to coordinate to ensure coherent regulations, standards and licensing procedures among diverse sectors.
IDLO is committed to advancing rule of law responses to climate change as an integral part of our mandate and work.
Thank you.
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The International Development Law Organization (IDLO) enables governments and empowers people to reform laws and strengthen institutions to promote peace, justice, sustainable development and economic opportunity.