The Right to a Healthy Environment and Its Role in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals

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Rachna Jha

Abstract

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), adopted by the United Nations in 2015, present an integrated framework for addressing the world’s most pressing challenges, including poverty, inequality, climate change, and peace. Central to the SDGs is the recognition of human rights as a foundation for sustainable development. This chapter explores the intrinsic linkages between the SDGs and human rights, emphasizing how the realization of one reinforces the other.


 


Many SDGs align with core human rights principles enshrined in international frameworks such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and subsequent treaties. For example, Goal 1 (No Poverty) relates to the right to an adequate standard of living, while Goal 4 (Quality Education) aligns with the right to education. Similarly, Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) supports rights to justice and freedom from oppression. The interdependence of human rights and SDGs ensures that marginalized groups are included in development processes, fostering equity and social justice.


 


The chapter also examines the challenges in implementing rights-based approaches to the SDGs. Conflicts, governance deficits, and resource constraints hinder progress in certain regions. Nevertheless, integrating human rights into SDG strategies offers a pathway to addressing these barriers effectively.


 


Finally, the chapter provides case studies highlighting successful rights-based approaches in achieving SDGs, including initiatives addressing gender equality, environmental sustainability, and the protection of vulnerable populations. By embedding human rights into development frameworks, the SDGs not only aim to eradicate deprivation but also empower individuals and communities to participate meaningfully in shaping their futures. As the global community advances toward the 2030 Agenda, a rights-based approach will remain pivotal to ensuring that no one is left behind.


 

Article Details

How to Cite
Jha, R. (2024). The Right to a Healthy Environment and Its Role in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals. European Economic Letters (EEL), 14(4), 1283–1287. https://doi.org/10.52783/eel.v14i4.2257
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