07

Dec

2024

2024 | 55th session of the Human Rights | Human Rights Council | Written Statements

Union Association for Human Rights Calls for Strengthening Global Climate Justice

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About the Statement

A written statement was issued by the Union Association for Human Rights (UAHR), in cooperation with a consultative organization, under document number A/HRC/55/NGO/116. The statement, submitted to the Human Rights Council at its 55th session (February–April 2024), focuses on the importance of promoting climate justice. It commends the outcomes of the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), hosted by the United Arab Emirates, and considers the achievements of the conference a pivotal milestone in advancing international environmental action and related human rights.

Statement Content

  • The statement highlights the link between human rights and the environment, emphasizing the need to mainstream the concept of “climate justice” within the agenda of the Human Rights Council.
  • It commends the pivotal role of the United Nations, particularly the Human Rights Council, in drawing global attention to the impact of climate change on quality of life and fundamental rights, especially in the most vulnerable countries and communities.

Commendation of COP28:

  • The statement praises the United Arab Emirates for hosting the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) in November 2023, describing it as one of the most significant global climate achievements in nearly three decades.

It considers the outcomes of COP28 a major step forward in:

  • Reducing carbon emissions.
  • Realizing climate neutrality.
  • Protecting vulnerable populations and affected communities.
  • Directing sustainable and strategic investments toward climate action.

Key Pillars of the UAE Consensus:

The statement highlights the major outcomes achieved at COP28, including:

  • Accelerating climate action.
  • Establishing the world’s largest investment fund for climate solutions.
  • Securing over $85 billion in new financial commitments.
  • Doubling reliance on renewable energy.
  • Advancing climate-related agriculture, food, and health systems.
  • Reducing emissions in the oil and gas sector.
  • Adopting a Declaration on Climate, Relief, Recovery and Peace.
  • Committing to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Call for Enhanced Monitoring and Accountability:

The statement urges the development of an international mechanism to follow up on the implementation of COP28 outcomes and ensure countries fulfill their pledges, particularly with respect to:

  • Climate funding.
  • Support for developing countries and affected communities.
  • Reducing harmful human interventions in the climate system.

Key Recommendations

  • Continued support from the Human Rights Council for climate justice and its integration with the protection of human rights.
  • Adoption of the UAE Consensus as a global reference for effective climate action.
  • Establish an international mechanism to monitor the implementation of COP28 outcomes and track financial commitments.
  • Enhanced global support for the UAE Climate Fund to help bridge the climate finance gap and foster environmental innovation.
  • Support the UAE’s pioneering role as a model in hosting climate conferences and proposing inclusive, practical solutions.

Significance of the Statement

  • The statement reinforces the strong link between human rights and climate change, affirming that climate justice is not optional but a global obligation.
  • It positions COP28 as a transformative milestone in international climate efforts.
  • It highlights the UAE’s leadership in global climate action as a model of effective organization, strategic vision, and tangible outcomes.