Empowering National Human Rights Institutions to Advance
Rights-Based Climate Action
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meeting in Denmark, reflects their commitment to discussing the intersection of business and
human rights concerning climate-related migration. Additionally, they address environmental
challenges stemming from the Rohingya refugee influx, advocating for sustainable solutions
while navigating complex political landscapes.
NHRC India recognises the challenges but sees potential for advocacy in climate
change project assessments to address human rights implications, particularly regarding
displacement. While the NHRC has yet to undertake extensive initiatives focused on climate
empowerment, they plan to enhance coordination with international organisations. The
Indian government’s leadership in climate action, including commitments under the Paris
Agreement, provides a framework for the NHRC to integrate human rights considerations into
climate policies and initiatives effectively.
In the Maldives, HRCM emphasises coordinated approaches with various stakeholders,
including government entities, the private sector, and CSOs. Their business and human rights
programme seeks to ensure that companies respect human rights, incorporating climate
change considerations into their operations. The involvement of HRCM’s Vice President in
the Asia Pacific Forum Working Group on Environment signifies ongoing collaborative efforts.
However, the effectiveness of these initiatives in influencing business practices, particularly
in the tourism sector, remains to be seen, indicating a need for further investigation and
reporting.
NHRC Nepal focuses on local partnerships with CSOs and NGOs while engaging in
international collaborations, such as a project with FHI 360 funded by the USA. This
partnership aims to enhance the NHRC’s capacity in addressing climate change. Upcoming
plans for an international climate conference in Nepal demonstrate a commitment to
fostering greater engagement, although the NHRC’s international partnerships remain limited.
Overall, NHRC Nepal is making strides in building its capacity while exploring avenues for
collaboration.
NCHR Pakistan has recently received enhanced recognition from the UN, improving its
capacity to engage in climate change discussions. This designation is expected to facilitate
international collaboration, allowing the Commission to work on specific climate-related
projects. The commission’s clear commitment to strengthening coordination with national and
international organisations reflects an understanding of the critical role collaborative efforts
play in addressing human rights implications of climate change.
In Sri Lanka, HRCSL actively collaborates with national and international organisations,
including the Norwegian Human Rights Institution and the CFHNRI, to address climate
change. Appointing a focal point officer for coordination demonstrates a structured approach
to engagement. However, the lack of local coordination specifically in the climate change