Thank you to Freeman Mubanga for this reminder that if a country decides to do a 'full' transition to #cleanenergy and a #sustainableeconomy, it will take into account the needs and opinions of ALL its stakeholders, including marginalised groups and those affected by the current way of doing things. With all those stakeholder opinions taken into account, the country will not only benefit from renewable energy and the benefits of electricity for national industry but also power for health centres, schools, and transport systems to provide mobility to people with disabilities. AND alternative sources of income for those involved in extraction or affected by it. There are so many benefits to choosing a sustainable future.
Human Rights Day 2024: "Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now" Today, as the world observes Human Rights Day, we are reminded of the transformative power of human rights in creating a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world. This year’s theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now,” resonates deeply, especially in the context of environmental justice and the lived realities of communities impacted by extractive industries. In Zambia, mining communities continue to endure severe violations of their land and environmental rights, often with devastating consequences for their health, livelihoods, and dignity. One stark example is the ongoing case of manganese toxicity in Serenje District, where residents have faced severe health and environmental repercussions due to unregulated mining activities. The Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ) has been actively involved in addressing these challenges. Our work in Serenje underscores the urgent need to uphold the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), which enshrines the right to a clean, safe, and sustainable environment as integral to human dignity and well-being. 💡 Why This Matters: Land and environmental rights are human rights, yet they are frequently overlooked in the discourse surrounding resource extraction. The abrogation of these rights not only marginalizes communities but also exacerbates poverty and inequality, threatening sustainable development. Advocacy for these rights is essential in ensuring that mining practices are ethical, equitable, and aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. As we commemorate this day, let us remember that human rights are not just abstract ideals but practical tools for transformative change. It is a call to: ✅ Stand in solidarity with affected communities. ✅ Advocate for stronger governance and accountability in resource management. ✅ Amplify voices demanding justice and sustainable practices in the mining sector. At CEJ, we are committed to ensuring that vulnerable and marginalized communities are equipped to defend their rights and hold duty-bearers accountable. Together, we can champion environmental justice as a cornerstone of human rights for all. Check this Video: https://lnkd.in/geS4t99j 📢 Let’s use this Human Rights Day to renew our collective commitment to safeguarding the rights of every individual, ensuring that no one is left behind. #HumanRightsDay #EnvironmentalJustice #MiningCommunities #SustainableDevelopment #CEJ #OurRightsOurFutureRightNow