The Escazú Agreement stands as a strategic tool aimed at ensuring three fundamental pillars: access to environmental information, public participation in environmental decision-making, and access to justice in environmental matters, thus addressing the needs of communities and defending their rights.
At the recent Third Conference of the Parties (COP3) held in the City of Santiago, Chile, the importance of implementing the Escazú Agreement in Colombia and protecting human rights defenders, especially the most vulnerable such as youth and marginalized communities, has been highlighted. This meeting has not only highlighted the progress made but also the pending challenges, emphasizing the need for ongoing commitment and concrete actions to build a more sustainable and equitable future in the region.
In Latin America and the Caribbean, environmental leaders face significant difficulties due to the lack of governmental transparency in environmental matters and ineffective supervision of business activities. The Escazú Agreement becomes crucial in this context, as it promises a more equitable relationship between public and private institutions and communities, as well as clearer and more understandable dissemination of environmental information. Furthermore, it seeks to ensure real justice and reparation for environmental and social damages already caused.
Despite being a significant milestone in environmental protection and human rights in the region, the implementation of the Agreement in Colombia faces obstacles that require careful attention. It is essential to thoroughly evaluate the eight proposed points for its application and identify the relevant actors in Colombian society. Coordination between institutions and inclusive citizen participation are key elements to ensure respect for the rights of access to environmental information, public participation, and environmental justice, as established in the agreement.
Additionally, a step forward has been taken with the approval of the Action Plan for the protection of Human Rights Defenders in the region during COP3. However, significant challenges remain to be overcome, especially regarding the protection of indigenous defenders and youth. A complementary protocol is needed to strengthen existing provisions, particularly in areas such as protection measures, access to justice, and reparation.
The active participation of civil society in formulating policies for the implementation of the Escazú Agreement in each country of the region is encouraging. This will not only strengthen the protection of human and environmental rights but also promote stronger environmental governance and fulfill international commitments to the participation of indigenous communities.
COP3 has provided a valuable space to discuss and address these crucial issues, but it is essential that commitments translate into concrete actions at national and international levels. Only through joint effort and ongoing commitment can we move towards a future where both the environment and human rights are protected, and where defenders of these principles are valued and protected in all their diversity and bravery.
Author of the article:
Juan David Amaya
Associate Director
Life of Pachamama
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