Recognising environmental human rights defenders and the need for their protection

Environmental human rights defenders are key to the realisation of human rights, sustainable development and to advancing the 2030 Agenda. In light of the severe risks that defenders continue to face in this area, and given the serious and broad implicantions of the situation, it is essential to send a strong message in support of the positive role of these human rights defenders in society. The international community should support strong policies and practices that facilitate the work of environmental defenders, that protect them from violations, and that bring perpetrators to justice.

Speakers:

Foreign Minister of Norway, HE Ms Ine Eriksen Søreide

Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders, Mr Michel Forst

Human Rights Defender and Executive Director, Ms Matcha Phorn-In (Sangsan Anakot Yaowachon)

Ms Angela Kariuki, UN Environment

Mr Thiago Firbida, Protection lead Brazil, Article 19

Executive Director Mr Philip Lynch, International Service for Human Rights (ISHR) will moderate the event.