As notably highlighted by the former United Nations Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights, Philip Alston, climate change represents the ultimate challenge to humankind, with those living in poverty destined to be the most negatively affected group across the globe.
In this complex scenario, the concept of climate justice stands out as a top priority for the advancement of human rights and sustainable development, and critically addresses inequality and the root causes of climate change.
Climate justice essentially identifies climate change as a human rights issue, where the principles of equity and justice as well as the recognition of fundamental freedoms are cornerstone requisites to mitigate and adapt to climate change.
It is in this vein that FORUM-ASIA is presenting its eighth working paper series on climate justice.
This latest series places attention on the role of environmental human rights defenders (EHRDs) and indigenous peoples who have been playing a crucial role in opposing development projects threatening the environment, while also being exposed to ill-informed adaptation and mitigation measures; on national human rights institutions which hold immense potential in linking the human rights and climate change agendas; and on the youth who propel the movement forward in Thailand, combining creativity and knowledge.
A separate chapter looks into the interaction of genderblind international mechanisms and climate change, showcasing how gender inequality is one of the key manifestations of climate injustice.
FORUM-ASIA seeks to contribute to the climate justice discourse as climate change inevitably affects the organisation’s human rights and sustainable development research, capacity building and advocacy.
By highlighting experiences, trends, lessons learnt, reflections, and ways forward from our experienced members and partners across Asia, this working paper aims to amplify the voices of the most vulnerable to adverse impacts of climate change, and at the same time contribute towards holistic advocacy on climate justice.
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