Climate in-justice for children: How climate crisis affects access to justice and children’s rights – Advocacy Brief

Recent studies have demonstrated that climate change poses a substantial threat to the fundamental rights of children, particularly their right to fair access to justice and child-friendly justice systems. This essential right ensures that children can effectively voice their concerns and hold relevant actors accountable for actions that have contributed to environmental degradation.

Environmental degradation and climate change disproportionately affect children, especially those within the justice system who face increased risk to their rights and well-being as climate change exacerbates environmental disasters, economic disparities, and societal disruptions. Safeguarding their access to justice is not only a moral obligation but also a pivotal component of establishing a sustainable and equitable future.

Developed under the Global Initiative on Justice with Children (of which PRI is a member), this advocacy brief aims to enhance awareness among stakeholders regarding the urgent necessity to protect children’s rights to access justice in the context of the climate crisis.