Escazú and You: Tips for environmental advocates

The Escazú Agreement provides a powerful framework for promoting environmental rights and protecting those who defend the environment. By understanding and leveraging its provisions, environmental advocates can strengthen their efforts to achieve sustainable and just environmental outcomes.

Here’s how you can apply the Escazú Agreement to drive positive change:

• Educate Your Community

  • Ensure that people know their rights under the Escazú Agreement.

  • Organize community consultations to gather input on environmental issues.

  • Raise awareness about the Escazú Agreement through community workshops and social media campaigns.

  • Build coalitions with other organizations to strengthen advocacy efforts.

• Engage with Authorities

  • Request environmental data from relevant authorities.

  • Use public information to raise awareness and hold institutions accountable.

  • Engage with government agencies to ensure public participation is meaningful.

  • Monitor government compliance with the treaty’s obligations.

• Protect Defenders

  • Advocate for the safety of environmental defenders and report any violations.

  • Document any threats or attacks against environmental defenders.

  • Advocate for stronger policies to protect those who stand up for environmental rights.

• Seek Legal Remedies

  • Use the justice mechanisms provided by the agreement to address environmental harm.

  • Familiarize yourself with legal procedures to report environmental violations.

  • Partner with legal experts or NGOs to support cases.