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Former UN rights chief says ECHR decision shows that safe climate is a human right

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By illuminem briefings

· 2 min read


illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Euronews or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: Mary Robinson, former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and ex-President of Ireland, lauded a recent European Court of Human Rights ruling as groundbreaking, affirming that maintaining a safe climate is increasingly recognized as a human right 
• This ruling favored Swiss seniors over their government's inadequate protection against climate effects, although it dismissed similar claims by Portuguese youths and a French mayor on procedural grounds

🔭 The context: Robinson highlighted the decision's potential to open European nations to more legal actions for failing to shield their citizens from climate impacts 
• She reflected on her past oversight regarding climate issues during her political and UN careers, recognizing climate change as a rights issue only after working with African nonprofits

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The court's decision emphasizes the urgent need for all countries, particularly wealthy ones, to acknowledge and act on the severe and disparate impacts of climate change • This is crucial for advancing global climate justice and protecting vulnerable populations who bear the brunt of environmental disruptions

⏭️ What's next: With Brazil set to host upcoming international economic and climate negotiations, Robinson is optimistic about addressing global inequalities and sustainability 
• She advocates for systemic changes to combat the profound wealth and power disparities exacerbated by climate change

💬 One quote: "I think this is an interpretation of a reality, which is that people are suffering from climate shocks. Governments are still not taking seriously enough their responsibilities," (Mary Robinson, Former Irish President)

Click for more news covering the latest on climate change

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