Implementation Report - 2016

Submitted by John Knox on Wed, 09/13/2017 - 04:01

The fourth annual report of the Independent Expert on human rights obligations relating to the enjoyment of a safe, clean, healthy, and sustainable environment described possible methods of implementing human rights obligations.

The report discusses three points:

(1) the methods of implementation are not “either/or” alternatives, but instead should complement one another;

(2) all of the methods of implementation for human rights norms relating to the environment would also support achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals; and

(3) a human rights perspective on environmental protection not only promotes human dignity, equality and freedom, but also improves the effectiveness of policy making generally.

 

Possible methods of implementation described include:

(a) disseminating information about the human rights norms relating to the environment;

(b) building capacity;

(c) protecting the rights of those who are most vulnerable; and

(d) strengthening cooperation between different actors.

 

Implementation proposals are addressed to several organizations including:

(a) the Human Rights Council and other intergovernmental organizations;

(b) regional human rights bodies and other regional organizations;

(c) Governments and national human rights institutions;

(d) civil society organizations; and

(e) the Special Rapporteur himself.

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