Legal recognition alone is not enough; it must lead to accountability and real-world solutions!

Between December 2 and 13, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) will hold landmark public hearings on States' obligations regarding climate change—a pivotal moment to reinforce the human rights dimension of climate action.

In his keynote address at the Promise Institute Europe’s Launch Conference this May, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk described the climate crisis as a human rights crisis. Highlighting the devastating impacts of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution on lives, livelihoods, and ecosystems, High Commissioner Türk called for a transformative approach to environmental governance, grounded in justice and dignity. He emphasized that the most vulnerable communities—those who have contributed least to the crisis—are often its greatest victims, perpetuating systemic inequalities rooted in historical injustices.

Volker Türk United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights

For High Commissioner Türk, human rights are not just a framework but “the roadmap for the transformative change we need to make peace with nature.” The recognition of the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, now enshrined in many legal systems worldwide, provides a critical foundation for action. However, he stressed that legal recognition alone is not enough; it must lead to accountability and real-world solutions. Legal milestones, including recent decisions by international courts, illustrate the growing role of human rights as a framework for meaningful climate action.

As the ICJ deliberates, High Commissioner Türk’s words remain a powerful reminder: “We are well past the hour for States to act.” The challenge now is not only to define these obligations but to ensure they drive tangible, rights-based solutions that prioritize justice and equity for the people and communities most affected by the climate crisis.

Watch High Commissioner Türk’s full keynote speech below, or read the text in full on the OHCHR website.