The European Court of Human Rights dealt with several cases brought by citizens on Tuesday, April 9 Europe. They were all worried Inadequate action by countries to prevent climate change.
Do citizens have a right to protect themselves from climate change?
The tribunal on Tuesday dismissed most of the cases, including six brought by Portuguese and one French mayor. The plaintiffs wanted to force their countries to commit to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Tribunal He stood alone with a group of 2,000 men. Pensioners from SwitzerlandHe also demanded that his country take responsibility for protecting its citizens from the negative effects of climate change.
Judgments of the European Court of Human Rights are not legally binding on all member states of the Council of Europe, but they set a legal precedent. This is The International Court of Justice has ruled for the first time on climate change.
Young climate activists applauded the court's rulingJean-Francois Badias/Associated Press/East News – https://twitter.com/LukaszJachimiakEast News
Before the verdict was announced, scores of people gathered outside the court, including climate activist Greta Thunberg.
– Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights guarantees the right to respect for private and family life. In today's judgment, the court confirmed that this right is inclusive It is the duty of the state to effectively protect its citizens against the negative effects of climate change Health, prosperity, life and its quality – lawyer Maria Voskovich tells Interior.
According to the court, Switzerland did not take the necessary measures, for example not setting national limits on greenhouse gas emissions. Even if the court ruled in the case of Swiss citizens, does the case only apply to Switzerland?
Europe's climate problem. Polish too
– Although the case is about Switzerland, yes The Polish government must also draw conclusions from it. While the published ruling is a warning that Poland must finally take climate policy and green change seriously – it owes it to its citizens – the lawyer also pointed out that the government has yet to agree on a legal date and strategy for phasing out coal.
– and these are part of the measures necessary to fulfill the obligations under the Convention to which Poland is a signatory. Change should also apply to other areas such as construction and transport It is Poland's responsibility to prepare properly Carrying out this process so as not to leave people without support and help – adds Maria Voskovich.
The European Court of Human Rights was established in 1959. The Court adjudicates on human rights matters referred to in the Convention and considers complaints from citizens of the 46 member states of the Council of Europe that have ratified the Convention. The seat of the Court is in Strasbourg, France.
Can someone sue the company?
Later this month, the European Parliament will vote on introducing a directive on corporate responsibility to citizens. This is especially true when it comes to the effects of included activities Human rights and environmental protection.
The Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) may soon be adopted by the EP. If adopted, it will force the industry to take social responsibility and conduct business ethically. If a company does not follow the rules, it will face heavy fines Obstacles.
According to the principles of the order, every citizen can submit an application Direct complaint. All details must be agreed upon by member states.
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