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San José, Costa Rica – The Center for Human Rights and Environment (CHRE/CEDHA) applauds the historic Advisory Opinion issued by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights recognizing the climate emergency as a direct threat to fundamental human rights across the Americas. The Court’s opinion affirms that States have binding obligations to prevent and address the impacts of climate change under the American Convention on Human Rights. It recognizes the human right to a healthy climate and the concept of stringent due diligence when judging climate action or inaction.
The Advisory Opinion responds to a request made by the Republics of Colombia and Chile and marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of international human rights law by clarifying the legal responsibilities of States in the face of accelerating climate impacts.
“This is a groundbreaking decision that enshrines climate action as a legal obligation under human rights law,” said Romina Picolotti founder of CEDHA. “For frontline communities suffering from rising seas, deforestation, drought, and pollution, the Court has made clear that States cannot delay action—human lives, dignity, and survival are on the line.”
In its opinion, the Court underscores that environmental degradation, including climate change, severely threatens the right to life, health, water, food, and a healthy environment. It further asserts that States must take urgent and ambitious measures to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and protect vulnerable populations, including Indigenous peoples, women, children, and future generations.
CEDHA, a pioneer organization in linking environmental degradation to human rights violations, has long advocated for the recognition of climate change as a human rights issue. The organization provided technical input to the Court during the advisory process, including amicus briefs and expert testimony on climate accountability.
“This Opinion empowers communities and civil society with a vital legal tool to demand urgent climate action and environmental justice,” said Romina Picolotti “It’s a resounding message to governments and corporations: the era of impunity for climate destruction is over.”
CEDHA calls on all States in the Inter-American System to immediately align national laws and policies with the Court’s guidance, to uphold their human rights obligations in the face of the climate crisis.
Download the Advisory Opinion (in Spanish)
Download CHRE’s Amicus Brief on the Human Right to Resilience in Times of Climate Emergency
About CHRE/CEDHA Originally founded in Argentina in 1999, the Center for Human Rights and Environment (CHRE/CEDHA) is a nonprofit organization working globally to advance human rights through environmental protection. CHRE/CEDHA is a recognized leader in climate justice, environmental law, and corporate accountability.