UN Human Rights Council 46: UK Statement on Human Rights and the Environment
The UK's International Ambassador for Human Rights, Rita French, delivered this statement during the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Human Rights and the Environment.
Thank you, Madam President,
The United Kingdom welcomes today’s dialogue with the Special Rapporteur, and notes with appreciation the Report of the Special Rapporteur on the issue of water pollution, water scarcity and water-related disasters.
The UK is proud to be hosting the 26th Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC.
Under the UK’s COP26 Presidency, we are committed to enabling progress across all the mandates we have been given, and securing an ambitious outcome that respects and reflects the interests of all Parties - including the poorest and most climate vulnerable.
Acceleration of climate change and biodiversity loss is degrading the natural systems that sustain life and threatening the enjoyment of human rights. Because of this - the UK wants to stimulate greater climate action on adaptation and resilience.
We want to ensure that all countries have tools and support to cope with the physical and human impacts of climate change.
This includes water pollution, water scarcity and water-related disasters. The international community must come together to respond to the Global Water Crisis.
Dr Boyd, we invite your views on how to engage meaningfully on this issue with non-state actors, including businesses, in order to promote inclusive climate action.
Thank you.