BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 6. International law ranks with the top powerful tools in the fight against climate change, President of COP29, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan Mukhtar Babayev said, Trend reports.
Babayev made the remark during the Law & Climate International Conference organized by the Union of Judges and the Supreme Court of Azerbaijan in Baku today.
He noted that Azerbaijan has also had its fair share of weathering the storm of climate change.
"These effects are now visible to everyone, not just specialists. Climate change is impacting agriculture, water resources, forests, biodiversity, healthcare, and tourism, among other sectors. Particular attention should be paid to its effect on coastal areas. In recent years, the level of the Caspian Sea has significantly declined. The causes include both anthropogenic and technological factors.
As the impact of climate change grows, so does the role of legislation. Legal systems should not be limited to ensuring emission reductions but must focus on protecting the rights of communities most affected by climate change. Our legal systems should ensure the fulfillment of global climate agreements, implement climate justice, and, most importantly, protect the rights of those who are vulnerable to climate impacts.
These goals must be achieved not only at the national level but also through international cooperation. International law is one of the most powerful tools in the fight against climate change. Courts in many countries are hearing and ruling on cases related to climate change," the minister added.
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