Empowering National Human Rights Institutions to Advance Rights-Based Climate Action 37 NCHR Pakistan emphasises the importance of public participation in policymaking, especially regarding climate issues that affect marginalised communities. The NCHR’s proactive stance involves providing policy inputs to the federal government, particularly in relation to the Juvenile Justice Act and discrimination concerns. By focusing on systemic reforms rather than individual complaints, the NCHR aims to create more inclusive policies. However, their effectiveness relies on ongoing engagement with the government to ensure that human rights considerations are integrated into climate-related policies. In Sri Lanka, HRCSL acknowledges a need for internal capacity development in climate change and human rights. While they possess strong expertise in human rights, their limited knowledge of climate issues restricts their effectiveness in advocating for human rights in climate-related policies. The commission recognises the importance of engaging with government agencies to ensure that human rights principles are integrated into climate action, yet support and resources are required to strengthen their capacity in these areas. Across these countries, the effectiveness of NHRIs in advocating for inclusive policies related to climate change is often contingent upon the political will of their governments. Where political support is strong, NHRIs can effectively integrate human rights considerations into climate initiatives. However, when political will is lacking, as seen in the Maldives and Bangladesh, NHRIs face significant challenges in fulfilling their mandates. Furthermore, the experiences of the six NHRIs underscore the importance of fostering political will and addressing security concerns to effectively advocate for human rights-based climate policies. Continuous engagement with governments, capacity-building efforts, and raising awareness among political leaders are crucial steps in ensuring that CCMA efforts are inclusive and respect fundamental human rights. D. Protection of Defenders and Access to Remedies The role of NHRIs in protecting HRDs and ensuring access to remedies in relation to CCMA varies across the six NHRIs. While common challenges exist, each NHRI’s experience sheds light on distinct approaches and contexts affecting defenders’ safety and effectiveness. Four out of the six NHRIs (Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka) indicated that they do support individuals negatively impacted by CCMA measures and help them in getting effective remedies. Similarly, five NHRIs reported that they actively advocate for the protection of environmental human rights defenders, especially those working in the area of climate change related areas. When such HRDs face violence or prosecution, NHRIs work closely with them and relevant state agencies to protect the HRDs from such intimidation and violence (Figure 14).