The relationship between Human Rights and Climate Change displacement was the main topic for discussion at the inter-sessional panel of the Human Rights Council (HRC). Earlier this year, the HRC

by deptfo news

Fijian delegation on human rights. On the right is Nazhat Shameem Khan, Fiji’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva and Chief Negotiator for the COP23 Presidency Photo: DEPTFO

The relationship between Human Rights and Climate Change displacement was the main topic for discussion at the inter-sessional panel of the Human Rights Council (HRC).

Earlier this year, the HRC adopted by consensus its first resolution on the matter, which was supported by Fiji.

Dr. Sindra Sharma, member of the Fijian Mission delegation in Geneva, pointed out the relevance of this resolution for a number of areas of importance to Fiji and the Pacific region such as health, gender, local communities and climate change, and climate-related loss and damage.

In welcoming efforts to acknowledge the resolution, Dr Sharma highlighted that “Fiji has offered to give a permanent home to the people of two of our closest neighbours who are losing territory due to climate change – Tuvalu and Kiribati”.

In addressing internal relocation within Fiji, Dr Sharma highlighted that the Fijian Government has taken the initiative to develop its own people centred relocation guideline to ensure the protection of rights and dignity of displaced persons.

Mr Itinterunga Rae Bainteiti, delegate of the Kiribati National Youth Association of NGOs, expressed appreciation for the Fijian policy to address displacement and expressed support for the Fijian Climate COP23 Presidency. Green Peace Africa applauded Fiji for offering refuge to its neighbours from the region as an example of good will, solidarity, and the upholding of human rights.

DEPTFO News

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