Empowering National Human Rights Institutions to Advance Rights-Based Climate Action iv Executive Summary Climate change presents a profound global human rights challenge that destabilises food security, natural resources, and migration patterns. Island nations and less developed countries are particularly vulnerable, facing existential threats to fundamental rights like life, health, housing, and access to water. South Asia, with over 200 million people at risk from rising sea levels and melting glaciers, is especially vulnerable. The region’s “new climate normal” includes extreme weather events that could worsen living conditions for up to 800 million people, with projected economic losses of USD 160 billion annually by 2030 and 40 million climate migrants by 2050. Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation (CCMA) initiatives aim to address the causes and effects of climate change. Mitigation focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions through renewable energy, energy efficiency, and carbon capture, driven by international agreements like the Paris Agreement. Adaptation focuses on preparing for climate impacts through infrastructure development, resilient agriculture, and early warning systems, crucial for vulnerable regions like small island nations. South Asian countries, recognising their vulnerability, have adopted various CCMA policies. Bangladesh has implemented the National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA) and the Delta Plan 2100, as well as the National Strategy on Internal Displacement Management (2021). India promotes clean energy through the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), Rehabilitation and Relocation of Persons Displaced due to Climate Change Act, 2022, and Climate Migrants (Protection and Rehabilitation) Act, (2022) and other relevant policies. The Maldives has the National Adaptation Programme of Action (2021-2025) and a focus on coastal protection and reducing the impact of climate change on the population. Nepal’s policies include the National Adaptation Plan (2021-2050) and a net-zero emissions target by 2045. Sri Lanka’s plans include the National Climate Change Policy and a focus on disaster risk management. Pakistan’s policies emphasise energy efficiency and hydropower expansion. National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) play a vital role in integrating human rights principles into CCMA initiatives. Their involvement ensures that climate actions respect, protect, and fulfil human rights, particularly for vulnerable communities. NHRIs advocate for a human rights-based approach to climate justice, promoting equitable and participatory decision-making, and supporting a just transition to a zero-carbon economy. Key roles of NHRIs at the national level include advising governments on human rights-based climate policies, promoting environmental and social impact assessments, supporting communities affected by climate change, and protecting environmental human rights defenders (EHRDs).