International Legal Protection for Victims of Environmental Abuse

Abstract

Environmental disasters are increasing. They often result from human activities, such as the disposal of toxic chemicals, the generation of power, and the exploitation of oil. Mismanagement of natural resources has caused severe watershed erosion, desertification, and atmospheric pollution, which, in turn, have seriously impaired human life. Although the human suffering associated with environmental destruction is growing, international and regional human rights organizations and institutions have yet to clarify the obligation of governments to protect and provide remedies for these victims. This paper seeks to inspire such clarification and suggests legal and institutional reforms toward that end.