Climate Litigation by Portuguese Youth an International Court Case

The International Court Case: A Landmark Battle - Climate Litigation by Portuguese Youth

Background of the Case

A group of young activists from Portugal, ranging in age from 8 to 18, filed a groundbreaking case against 33 European countries in the European Court of Human Rights. Their claim centers on the accusation that these countries have failed to take adequate measures to combat climate change.

  • Filed: September 2020
  • Countries Involved: 33 European countries, including major emitters like Germany, France, and the United Kingdom
  • Legal Basis: Alleged violation of human rights, including the right to life and respect for private and family life, under the European Convention on Human Rights

The Portuguese Youth Climate Lawsuit - A Closer Look

Background and Motivation

Siblings Sofia and André Oliveira, along with four other young people from Portugal, are suing the governments of the 33 most polluting countries in Europe. They argue that climate change risks their health and future, violating their human rights. The European Court of Human Rights has fast-tracked the lawsuit, filed in 2020, and a judgment could come next year. Source: NPR

Timeline and Key Events of the Portuguese Youth Climate Lawsuit

Case Timeline

Date Event
September 3rd, 2020 Case is filed against 33 European countries in the European Court of Human Rights.
October 15th, 2020 Court fast-tracks the case, indicating its significance.
November 13th, 2020 Court requires States to respond to the lawsuit.
January 15th, 2021 Governments seek reversal of fast-tracking but are unsuccessful.
February 4th, 2021 Court upholds the decision to fast-track the case.
May 6th, 2021 Eight supportive “third party interventions” are filed.
May 20th, 2021 European Commission files intervention in the case.
August 14th, 2021 Governments file their first set of defenses.
February 9th, 2022 Youth-applicants respond to Governments' defenses.
June 13th, 2022 Governments file their second set of defenses.
June 28th, 2022 Court refers the case to the 17-judge “Grand Chamber.”
April 2023 Court announces hearing to take place on September 27th, 2023.

What Now?

The six youth-Applicants and their legal team must prepare for a hearing before the 17-judge Grand Chamber against the 32 countries and their lawyers. This crucial final stage of their case is set for September 27th, 2023. Supporting and sharing their crowdfund can help them in this legal fight.

Opinion and Analysis

The timeline of the Portuguese youth climate lawsuit paints a picture of determination, collaboration, and legal innovation. It's a story that began with personal experiences and grew into a landmark legal battle. The fast-tracking of the case by the European Court signifies the urgency and importance of the issue. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications, not only for the involved countries but for the global approach to climate change and human rights. It's a case that underscores the potential of legal action to drive change, but it also highlights the need for continued vigilance and public support.

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