UN Independent Expert Releases First Report to the UN Human Rights Council

The Independent Expert released his first report to the Human Rights Council on the human rights obligations relating to the enjoyment of a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment.

The report places the mandate in a historical context, presents some of the outstanding issues relevant to the relationship between human rights and the environment and describes the current and planned programme of activities. The report explains that while some fundamental aspects of the relationship between human rights and the environment are now firmly established, many issues need greater study and clarification. The first priority of the UN mandate is to provide greater conceptual clarity to the application of human rights obligations related to the environment. He intends to take an evidence-based approach to determining the nature, scope and content of these obligations. To inform his work, the Independent Expert will actively consult and seek input from a wide spectrum of relevant stakeholders.

Read Report here