Chen Xu: Continue to pay attention to the human rights of disadvantaged groups in climate change Central News Agency CNA
The Human Rights Commission in Taiwan is focusing on human rights issues related to climate change. Chairman Chen Xu highlighted the “Aarhus Convention,” which promotes information disclosure, public participation, and judicial relief. These principles align with Taiwan’s commitment to social human rights, especially for disadvantaged groups affected by climate impacts.
Today, the commission co-hosted an international forum titled “Towards Net Zero with Human Rights – Environmental Human Rights in Climate Governance.” The forum aimed to discuss the rights of people versus the obligations of governments and corporations in addressing climate issues. Thomas Schomeras from the UN’s Aarhus Convention Compliance Committee shared insights at the event.
Chen Xu noted that climate change results in extreme weather events. The Human Rights Council will integrate climate change into its strategic plan. He emphasized the importance of the Aarhus Convention, although Taiwan is not a member. The convention serves as a framework for assessing environmental policies.
The commission stressed the significance of citizen engagement in climate policy. It stated that people should have a role in decision-making processes. Tian Qiujin, a supervisory committee member, pointed out that the Aarhus Convention promotes transparency and public involvement in environmental decisions.
What is the role of the Aarhus Convention in promoting environmental justice and public participation in climate change governance?
Interview with Dr. Thomas Schomeras, UN Aarhus Convention Compliance Committee
News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Schomeras. As a key speaker at the recent forum co-hosted by the Human Rights Commission in Taiwan, can you elaborate on the significance of the Aarhus Convention in the context of climate change?
Dr. Thomas Schomeras: Thank you for having me. The Aarhus Convention is critically important as it establishes a framework that promotes transparency, public participation, and access to justice in environmental matters. In the face of climate change, these principles become essential to empower citizens and ensure that their rights are protected. While Taiwan is not a party to the convention, its commitment to integrating these principles into domestic policy reflects a growing awareness of the human rights implications of environmental governance.
News Directory 3: Chairman Chen Xu emphasized the impact of climate change on vulnerable populations. How does the Aarhus Convention address the rights of these groups?
Dr. Thomas Schomeras: The Aarhus Convention recognizes that marginalized communities often bear the brunt of environmental degradation and climate impacts. By facilitating public participation in decision-making, the convention ensures that these groups are heard and can advocate for their rights. This is particularly crucial in climate governance where decisions can have far-reaching consequences for livelihoods and social equity.
News Directory 3: The forum discussed the balance between governmental responsibilities and the rights of individuals. In your experience, how can we strike this balance effectively?
Dr. Thomas Schomeras: Striking a balance requires a multi-stakeholder approach, where governments are held accountable and citizens actively engage in policymaking. Access to information is a fundamental first step. Individuals must understand not only their rights but also the stakes involved in climate-related decisions. Governments need to provide clear channels for involvement while being transparent in their actions and policies.
News Directory 3: Committee members mentioned the necessity of considering global impacts on local populations. How can Taiwan lead by example in this aspect?
Dr. Thomas Schomeras: Taiwan can set a precedent by incorporating climate justice into its environmental policies. By prioritizing the needs of the most affected populations, the government can demonstrate its commitment to human rights in climate action. This will also inspire other regions to adopt similar frameworks, promoting a more inclusive global response to climate change.
News Directory 3: what are your hopes for the future of environmental human rights in the context of climate governance?
Dr. Thomas Schomeras: I hope to see a paradigm shift where environmental policies do not just aim for net-zero emissions but also champion human rights. It’s essential that all voices are included in the conversation, especially those of vulnerable communities. By fostering environmental democracy, we can ensure that climate strategies are both sustainable and equitable, leaving no one behind.
Ye Yijin, another committee member, highlighted the global effects of climate change. He stressed the need to consider the human rights of vulnerable populations in the transition to net-zero emissions.
In conclusion, the forum underscored that environmental democracy and protection of rights can help address the challenges posed by climate change, ensuring no one is left behind.