A landmark resolution on human rights and climate change, spearheaded by Bangladesh, has been unanimously adopted by the UN Human Rights Council at its 59th session in Geneva, underscoring the country’s growing leadership on global climate advocacy.

The resolution, adopted on Wednesday (July 9), highlights the far-reaching impact of climate change on billions of people, particularly in terms of health, habitat, livelihoods, and development. 

It calls for urgent and increased international action, especially in supporting vulnerable and developing nations.

Bangladesh’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, Tareq Md. Ariful Islam, addressed the Council before the adoption, saying that the resolution reflects both the rising global demand for equitable climate action and the widening gap in climate finance.

Negotiated under Bangladesh’s leadership on behalf of a Core Group—which also includes the Philippines and Vietnam—the resolution emphasizes the need for new, increased, and appropriate climate financing, technology transfer, and capacity building for developing countries. 

It also urges the international community, particularly developed nations, to extend special support to climate-vulnerable and debt-burdened states.

In a significant development, the resolution incorporates—for the first time—the principle of remedies and compensation for loss and damage caused by climate change-related human rights violations. 

This move marks a shift toward recognition of climate justice in the UN’s human rights framework.

The Council statement reads: “Climate change is adversely affecting the lives of billions of people around the world. Their lives, health, habitat, social security, and development trajectory are under threat.”

Bangladesh’s diplomatic efforts and contributions to the negotiations were widely commended by member states. 

The resolution also requests the UN Secretary-General to submit a detailed report at the 63rd session of the Human Rights Council, focusing on obstacles to adequate climate finance and human rights realization for all in the face of climate challenges.

The adoption of this resolution concludes the 59th session of the UN Human Rights Council and is seen as a diplomatic victory for Bangladesh, reinforcing its reputation as a leading voice for climate-vulnerable nations.

SMS/