Climate Rights

Article

Land Without People: The Impact of Green Colonialism on the Rights of Indigenous Communities in Africa

This article examines how “green colonialism” in Africa—through conservation projects, carbon markets, and renewable energy initiatives—has led to the displacement and marginalisation of Indigenous communities. Despite contributing minimally to climate change, Indigenous peoples face land dispossession, forced evictions, and loss of cultural identity as governments and external actors prioritise environmental and economic interests. The piece argues that existing legal frameworks fail to adequately protect Indigenous rights, allowing climate solutions to reproduce historical patterns of exploitation and inequality.

Press release

What Makes Climate Action Just?

Global Human Rights Defence (GHRD) highlighted the link between climate action and human rights at The Hague Talks on December 15, 2025. Discussions addressed climate change as a human rights and security issue, emphasizing the need for ethical responses to systemic inequalities. Key points included the risks of ignoring ethical considerations in climate strategies, critiques of profit-driven economic models, and the role of youth in climate justice. GHRD advocates for climate actions that promote equality and involve affected communities in decision-making.

Article

The European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Rules: How They Advance Human Rights Protection and What Is The Omnibus

The European Union’s corporate sustainability rules are at risk of being weakened by the European Commission through the proposed Omnibus Simplification Package, which seeks to amend regulations to enhance competitiveness. This approach includes leveraging sustainability regulations in trade negotiations with the United States, promising reduced administrative burdens and flexibility on import fees related to carbon emissions. Such moves threaten the original aim of these regulations, which is to incorporate environmental and social considerations into business strategies. The article discusses the nature of EU corporate sustainability rules, their potential to advance human rights, and the implications of the Omnibus Package on progress made thus far.

6th GHRD International Film Festival: Human Trafficking Edition
Submission Deadline: 9th August 2026