The United Nations Special Rapporteur on the human right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, Astrid Puentes Riaño, has called on global leaders to place human rights at the forefront of discussions during the upcoming third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3). The rapporteur emphasized the intrinsic connection between human rights and ocean governance, asserting that the degradation of marine environments significantly impacts societal well-being.
In her recent statement, Riaño advocated for the inclusion of human rights in the political declaration expected to emerge from the conference – the Nice Ocean Plan Action (NOPA). She urged that the declaration adopt a dual approach: one that is both human rights-based and ecosystem-centered. This approach is intended to help determine participant commitments towards ocean protection and preservation. The rapporteur also called for the official recognition of a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment as a human right, following the resolution adopted by the UN Human Rights Council earlier this year.
A key component of Riaño’s message is the responsibility of various stakeholders – including states and corporations – to align their actions with the goals of ocean conservation. This involves ending harmful extractive practices and adopting the precautionary principle, especially in contentious areas like deep-seabed mining. Companies, in particular, are urged to undertake thorough human rights and environmental due diligence concerning their operations.
Additionally, Riaño highlighted the imperative of ensuring access to information and justice for all peoples, with attention to indigenous peoples, local communities, and non-governmental organizations. This perspective arises from the recognition that ocean issues are inherently linked to human rights, despite often being treated separately in practice. The UN Special Rapporteur has made it clear that a systemic change in addressing ocean governance is urgently needed.
The call to action comes amid broader international efforts to curb marine pollution, which poses threats to biodiversity and fundamental human rights, such as the rights to life, health, and culture. The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) provides a framework for regulating human activities in marine environments. Furthermore, negotiations for a comprehensive global treaty addressing plastic pollution, initiated by the UN, are set to reconvene in 2025, demonstrating ongoing commitment to addressing oceanic challenges. These efforts are complemented by advisories from international bodies such as the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, emphasizing the legal obligation to reduce emissions impacting marine ecosystems.
For more detailed insights into the expert’s message and ongoing global marine governance efforts, you can refer to the full announcement here.