Amnesty International Urges Türkiye to Prioritize Human Rights and Climate action Ahead of COP31
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Amnesty International has called on Türkiye to take “decisive and transparent actions” to address climate change as it prepares to host the annual UN Climate summit, COP31, next year. The association emphasizes the need for a human rights-compliant transition away from fossil fuels and the protection of environmental defenders.
Marta Schaaf, Amnesty International’s Programme Director for Climate Justice, stated, “As the newly designated host for the annual UN Climate summit next year, Türkiye must take decisive and transparent actions to tackle climate change in line with its international obligations as confirmed in this year’s Advisory Opinion from the International Court of Justice. This requires not only establishing and implementing greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets that are aligned with the collective target to keep global warming to below 1.5, but also delivering a full, fast, fair and funded fossil fuel phase out through a just and human rights compliant transition across all sectors that protects people’s rights and ensures that no one is left behind.” Schaaf further stressed the importance of respecting the rights of those advocating for climate justice, stating Türkiye “must… guarantee the rights to freedom of expression and to peaceful protest so that those advocating for climate justice can freely participate in shaping climate policies before, during and after COP31.”
Türkiye’s Climate Challenge and COP31 Hosting
Türkiye was selected to host COP31 following a deal with Australia. However, the country currently faces important challenges in meeting global climate goals. The Climate Action tracker rates Türkiye’s climate policies and targets as “highly insufficient” to limit global warming to 1.5°C, as outlined in the Paris Agreement.
This assessment highlights the urgency for Türkiye to strengthen its commitments and implement effective climate policies. The International Court of Justice’s recent Advisory Opinion reinforces the legal obligations of states to prevent transboundary environmental harm, adding further weight to the call for action.
The Need for a Just Transition
Amnesty international’s call for a “just and human rights compliant transition” underscores the importance of ensuring that climate action dose not exacerbate existing inequalities or create new ones. A just transition involves:
* Phasing out fossil fuels: Moving away from coal, oil, and gas in a planned and equitable manner.
* Protecting workers and communities: Providing support and retraining opportunities for workers and communities dependent on the fossil fuel industry.
* Ensuring access to clean energy: Making clean energy affordable and accessible to all.
* Addressing climate-related displacement: Protecting the rights of people displaced by climate change impacts.
Protecting Environmental Human Rights Defenders
The organization’s emphasis on protecting environmental human rights defenders is crucial. These individuals – activists, journalists, and community leaders – often face threats, intimidation, and violence for their work in defending the environment and advocating for climate justice. Guaranteeing their safety and enabling their participation in policy-making processes is essential for effective and equitable climate action.
Key Takeaways
* Türkiye will host COP31 in 2026.
* Amnesty International urges Türkiye to strengthen its climate commitments and align them with the 1.5°C target.
* A “just transition” that protects human rights is essential.
* The rights of environmental human rights defenders must be respected and protected.
Looking ahead, Türkiye’s success in hosting COP31 will depend not only on logistical arrangements but also on its demonstrated commitment to enterprising climate action and the protection of human rights. The summit presents a critical prospect for Türkiye to demonstrate leadership on the global stage and contribute to a more enduring and equitable future.
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