Brussels, September 7, 2023 – The Brussels International Center (BIC) is hosting a side-event at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) session, scheduled for September 11, 2023, from 15:00 to 16:00. The event will build on last week's negotiations and discussions by the Transitional Committee (TC) on Loss and Damage (L&D), which have underscored the proposal of a new U.N. fund of $100 billion USD.
The event will feature distinguished speakers, including Dr. Ian Fry, UN Special Rapporteur on Climate, who will present the latest findings from his forthcoming report on "Enhancing Climate Change Legislation, Support for Climate Change Litigation, and Advancement of the Principle of Intergenerational Justice." One of the thematic priorities identified by the Special Rapporteur relates to these crucial aspects, emphasizing their significance in addressing climate change's adverse impacts and fostering intergenerational justice and human rights.
In addition to Dr. Ian Fry, our panel of esteemed speakers includes Dr. Elise Buckle, Co-Founder and Co-Director of SHE Changes Climate, and Ms. Lien Vandamme, Senior Campaigner at the Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL).
The main objectives of this event are to create a dynamic platform where experts, policymakers, advocates, and stakeholders can come together to engage in open discussions, exchange innovative ideas, and explore novel approaches to addressing the adverse impacts of climate change, with a specific focus on loss and damage.
As we draw near to COP28 in December 2023, a significant and urgent task lies ahead: molding the discussions around loss and damage into a framework that not only looks to the future but is firmly rooted in tangible action and responsibility. This means:
- Recognizing the necessity of a minimum annual fund of $100 billion USD.
- Embracing a broad approach to loss and damage, including economic and non-economic aspects, as per the COP27 decision.
- Ensuring access and eligibility based on triggers, prioritizing the most vulnerable nations.
Our overarching goal is to advocate for the principle of intergenerational justice, equitable resource distribution, and strengthen accountability as fundamental cornerstones for any loss and damage agreements to be discussed ahead of the at COP28 and during negotiations.
Event Details:
Date: September 11, 2023
Time: 15:00 to 16:00
Location: UN Human Rights Council, Geneva, Switzerland