UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

53^th session

Interactive Dialogue on the Secretary General report on climate change

3 July 2023

Joint Statement on importance of civil society access to and participation in  international climate discussions

Mr. President,

The European Union has the honour to deliver this Joint Statement on behalf of 70 countries.

We welcome today’s discussion, and the increased awareness and engagement shown by this Council on the interdependence between human rights, and combatting climate change.

A crucial element to advance this agenda must be to ensure transparent, inclusive, safe and meaningful participation and leadership both online and offline by civil society in international climate discussions.

We welcome the UAE’s commitment, as also expressed during the recent UPR, “to ensure that the COP28 is inclusive for all, especially those at the frontlines of climate change, including civil society, Indigenous Peoples, and youth”. We are convinced that the meaningful participation of climate activists, human rights defenders and other members of civil society, especially women, youth and marginalized groups, in an enabling environment free of intimidation, harassment, including sexual harassment, arbitrary surveillance and reprisal, is an indispensable element for the success of the Conference.

The climate crisis requires immediate accelerated action and strengthened ambition, including to deliver on global commitments and fully integrate human rights into our response. Nobody knows this better than those already in vulnerable situations. Let’s ensure their voices can resound strong and free; and contribute to all international climate discussions.

Thank you.