About the Petition
Despite contributing less than 4% to global greenhouse gas emissions, Africa faces severe climate change impacts, including droughts, floods, food insecurity, and displacement. Vulnerable populations, such as Indigenous communities, women, and children, are disproportionately affected due to limited adaptation resources and historical inequities.
Why This Petition Matters
This petition seeks an Advisory Opinion from the African Court to establish a clear legal framework for African states’ human rights obligations in responding to the climate crisis. It aims to advance climate jurisprudence, promote accountability, and protect the rights of present and future generations.
Legal & Human Rights Framework
The petition is grounded in the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, particularly Articles 4 (right to life), 16 (right to health), 22 (right to development), and 24 (right to a satisfactory environment). It also draws on international agreements like the Paris Agreement and the UNFCCC.
Stakeholders Involved (COALITION MEMBERS)
The campaign is led by the African Climate Platform (ACP), a coalition of civil society organizations, Indigenous groups, and climate activists, in partnership with the Pan African Lawyers Union (PALU). Over 50 organizations from West, East, Central, Southern, and North Africa are involved.
The African Climate Platform (ACP), in collaboration with the Pan African Lawyers Union (PALU), is petitioning the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights for an Advisory Opinion to clarify African states’ human rights obligations in addressing the climate crisis.