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The 63rd Session of the UN Human Rights Council #HRC came to a close in Geneva after a busy session: Many environment-related topics were discussed in and outside official sessions, from the right to a #HealthyEnvironmentForAll to climate finance, sea-level rise, toxics & AI. Here’s a look back 🧵👇

#HRC63 marks 5 years since the #HRC recognized the human right to a clean, healthy & sustainable environment. We celebrated this landmark achievement & took stock of the progress still needed to turn recognition into implementation, starting with a binding treaty at the @coe.int.

Environmental human rights defenders #EHRDs remain among those most at risk. Costa Rica delivered a statement, co-sponsored by 39 States, calling for better protection & for the safe, meaningful & inclusive participation of EHRDs in decision-making incl. #COP31, #COP17 & #GFCIC1.

#EHRDs face grave risks for their work, including killings, arbitrary detention, criminalization, and #SLAPPs. Some also face reprisals for engaging in international climate fora. Those defending the environment must be protected & empowered. Their participation matters.