The German Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers, in cooperation with the Steering Committee for Human Rights, held a high-level online workshop on the topic “Environment, Human Rights and Business: a framework for addressing environmental protection challenges” on 27 April 2021 from 9:00 to 13:30 via the KUDO videoconference platform.
The workshop raised awareness on the intersection of environment protection, human rights and business responsibilities. It explored trends and practical examples of business practices, tools and models that capture and address adverse impacts on both environment and human rights, mitigate risks to vulnerable groups and make positive contributions to the fight against climate change.
The workshop stimulated a dialogue on possible actions by the Council of Europe, including possibilities for standard-setting work and higher engagement with private business actors, to support an enhanced understanding and full protection of human rights and the environment by businesses.
Website of the German Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers
Relevant information
United Nations Guiding Principles on business and human rights
Declaration of the Committee of Ministers on the UN Guiding Principles
Environment and the European Convention on Human Rights (factsheet from the European Court)
Thematic factsheet on the environment (Execution of the European Court's judgments)
Manual of the Council of Europe on Human rights and Environment
Protecting environment using Human rights law
HELP online course Business and Human Rights
HELP online course Environment and Human Rights (Course brief)
Human Rights and Environment : a priority for the Council of Europe
