Statement by the Director-General, Jan Beagle at COP 26
High-level segment
10 November 2021
Excellencies,
It is a pleasure to address this Conference of the Parties on behalf of the International Development Law Organization, the only global intergovernmental organisation exclusively devoted to promoting the rule of law to advance peace and sustainable development.
I will focus today on climate justice, which is an important but sometimes overlooked aspect of the climate crisis.
This is because the causes and effects of climate change, as well as the actions needed to address them, are inextricably linked to issues of fairness, justice and the rule of law.
Drawing on IDLO’s three decades of experience, allow me to share three quick points on why applying a justice lens to climate action can catalyse progress towards a more just, green and sustainable future.
First, fair, effective and equitable laws and institutions can promote international cooperation, facilitate technology transfer and development, and unlock private investment to support sustainable adaptation and resilience in developing countries.
Second, people-centred justice systems can empower the most vulnerable, including women, youth, indigenous peoples and climate migrants - who have contributed least to the problem, while being most affected by it - to participate in decision-making and claim their environmental rights.
Third, the rule of law can serve as a powerful enabler for the institutional and policy transformations needed to address the complex transversal effects of climate change in areas such as conflict and migration, food and nutrition, health, and gender equality.
Through our country programmes, research and global policy advocacy, IDLO pledges to work with you all to promote a greener and more just world through the rule of law.