States must safeguard the global climate system and prevent human rights violations resulting from its disruption.

On Friday, Colombia called a ruling by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR) a “global milestone” for recognizing, for the first time, the human right to a healthy climate and the obligation of states to act on the climate crisis.

RELATED:

Europe’s Heatwaves and Drought Are Demanding Urgent Global Climate Action

“A historic decision for the planet and human rights,” said Environment Minister Lena Estrada, noting that the ruling stemmed from a joint request by the governments of Chile and Colombia in January 2023.

The court’s decision establishes clear obligations for states to mitigate emissions, regulate private actors, and protect the most vulnerable populations.

“Under the right to a healthy climate, states must safeguard the global climate system and prevent human rights violations resulting from its disruption,” explained the court.

The IACHR judges outlined state obligations amid the climate emergency, including:

– Ensuring public participation in climate policy decisions.

– Guaranteeing access to climate-related justice.

– Protecting the right to defend human rights.

– Providing access to climate information.

– Recognizing Indigenous, traditional, and local knowledge.

The ruling “confirms what Indigenous peoples have said for centuries: There are no human rights without Mother Earth. This is not just a legal step forward—it is a reaffirmation of life,” Estrada said.

Since Gustavo Petro became president, the Colombian government has prioritized environmental justice, protection for environmental activists, recognition of ancestral knowledge, and meaningful community participation in its national and international agenda.

teleSUR/ JF

Sources: EFE – Court House News

IN THIS ARTICLE