CLMATE JUSTICE AND HUMAN RIGHTS – Side event at the 58th Session of the Human Rights Council

Geneva, Human Rights Council – April 1st, 2025 – During the 58th Session of the Human Rights Council, Green and Better World along with the Institute for Human Rights had the opportunity to host a side event on Climate Justice and Human Rights. The conference featured insightful statements from Chanceline Ngaiku, climate activist from Green and Better World, human rights activist Emin Huseynov, Earthjustice representative to the UN Office in Geneva Yves Lador, and coordinator of the Europe Brazil Office Paulo Lugon Arantes. The event was moderated by a representative of the Institute for Human Rights, Isabella Bonfiglio. 

Chanceline Ngainku emphasized that climate policies must prioritize the voices of affected nations and communities, ensuring they have direct involvement in decision-making. Human rights, based on dignity, equality, and respect, are fundamental and must be protected against oppression. Climate advocacy efforts must focus on sustainable development, opposing unethical corporate practices contributing to environmental damage and overall, uniting people globally to address climate issues and demand systemic change. She highlighted that grassroots activists and affected communities must be included in climate decision-making but are often prevented from participating in events due to logistical and financial barriers such as obtaining visas. 

“Human rights belong to everyone and are based on dignity equality and respect regardless of differences and cannot be taken away” - Chanceline Ngainku.

Speaking on behalf of the Institute for Human Rights was journalist and human rights activist Emin Huseynov,  provided a sharp insight into how Azerbaijan addressed climate-related issues and concerns in the run-up to COP29. Huseynov also mentioned the crucial work that the Climate Observer Partnership sought to concretize before and during COP29, which included working with stakeholders. 

The journalist highlighted the dramatic nature of the repression that Aliyev's regime is carrying out against civil society. There are currently more than 360 political prisoners in the country, and this number has increased in the run-up to and after COP29. Huseynov highlighted how the categories under threat include activists, political dissidents, critical voices, journalists and climate activists, and how the conference was used by the regime to greenwash its image and gain international credibility. Striking evidence of this pattern is the Azerbaijani government's lack of concern for environmental issues in the aftermath of COP29. In addition, more than 40 climate and corruption investigative journalists are currently in prison in Azerbaijan. 

The director of the Institute for Human Rights also highlighted how the Climate Observer Partnership members were unable to attend COP29 in Baku due to fears of possible retaliation and repression by the authorities. During the event, Huseynov continued by drawing attention to Aliyev's current focus on cooperating with and becoming an ally of regimes such as the Russian Federation, presided over by Vladimir Putin, or Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko.

“Azerbaijan has its Presidency status until COP30 in Brazil, but nobody is talking about climate anymore” – Emin Huseynov.

Yves Lador stated that the suppression of environmental activists is not unique to Azerbaijan. Similar patterns of repression were seen at previous COP conferences. During COP28 which was held in the UAE, activists faced political imprisonment. Global initiatives are crucial, as evident from the joint statement issued by the countries like Columbia, Panama, Costa Rica and a group of 25 countries urging the integration of human rights protections in climate policies. Lastly, Mr. Lador emphasized the need for Brazil’s Host Country Agreement for COP30 to be made public and transparent to ensure accountability and prevent further environmental and human rights violations. 

“Climate activists face disproportionate threats, often leading to extrajudicial killings and imprisonment” - Yves Lador.

Paulo Lugon Arantes discussed how Brazil, becoming the host country for COP30 in 2025, offers both opportunities and concerns. Even though Brazil has established a Ministry of Indigenous Rights and a Ministry of Environment, these institutions face serious budget constraints. Threats to indigenous communities remain a significant concern, as public banks continue to heavily fund agribusiness sectors, and the expansion of pesticide use and attempts to legalize mining in indigenous territories pose significant risks. Land defenders face threats, violence, and retaliation for protecting their territories. 

“There is uncertainty over climate projects. While Brazil has proposed around 60 climate-related projects, there is little clarity on their implementation or potential impact.” - Paulo Lugon Arantes.

Watch the full recording: