“The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that everyone is entitled to a social and international order in which their rights and freedoms can be fully realised. This order is undermined today by the absence of effective action against climate change” he said.
“There are already some reports and studies that show the effects of climate change on the full enjoyment of human rights. Governments have the obligations to protect those whose rights are affected by the impact of global warming and by the policies and measures designed to address climate change.”
Commissioner Hammarberg further underlines that human rights standards should be integrated into plans and policies to address climate change and that economic and social rights should be protected by making best use of the available resources.
“Climate change and human suffering are intertwined. It is therefore crucial that the United Nations conference in Copenhagen next December reaches a strong deal to fight against climate change, with due regard to human rights protection.”
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