Access to justice for victims of climate change and international environmental crimes

Event date: 23 June 2021, 14:00 - 24 June 2021, 14:00

Which international mechanisms can individuals, communities and affected countries use to obtain redress for harm caused by those most responsible for the devastating consequences of climate change, the illegal and illicit exploitation of natural resources, and the trade and use of harmful substances?

People living in Commonwealth member countries both large and small bear the consequences of climate change and international environmental crimes yet often they receive little to no access to justice. Especially vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, are Commonwealth Small States, including Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Which international mechanisms can individuals, communities and affected countries use to obtain redress for harm caused by those most responsible for the devastating consequences of climate change, the illegal and illicit exploitation of natural resources, and the trade and use of harmful substances? How can a balance be struck, which allows vital economic and other forms of development to take place while ensuring that this is done in a way that respects the welfare of present and future generations? 

During this webinar, a panel of experts will share their views on these questions, highlighting international frameworks and mechanisms that could be strengthened or created to provide effective redress for victims of climate change and international environmental crimes. The discussion will include references to the International Criminal Court, the International Court of Justice, and proposals for the establishment of an International Court for the Environment.

Moderator

Dr Emmanuel Ugirashebuja, Immediate past President, East African Court of Justice

Speakers

  • Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Advocate, Supreme Court of Bangladesh and Chief Executive, BELA - Bangladesh Environmental Lawyers Association
  • Kirsty Schneeberger MBE, CEO of Synchronicity Earth
  • Peter Luff, Vice-Chair of the Coalition for an International Court for the Environment (ICE)
  • Stuart Bruce, Associate Director, Climate Risk and Decarbonisation Strategy at KPMG