National Human Rights Institution Recommends Integrating Human Rights in Climate Technology Development
The National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) has recommended integrating human rights considerations in all stages of climate technology development and conducting thorough human rights and environmental impact assessments throughout the technology lifecycle. These recommendations were presented to the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Climate Change regarding the implications of climate technologies on human rights.
Key Recommendations:
- Ensure the participation of affected communities and their access to information.
- Protect workers' rights during the development and deployment of climate technologies.
- Promote technology transfer and equitable access, benefiting all sectors of society.
- Strengthen partnerships between governments, private sector entities, scientific institutions, and national human rights institutions.
The NHRI's report was submitted in response to a request from the Special Rapporteur, offering valuable insights into the UAE's experience with climate technologies while emphasizing their connection to human rights protection.
"The relationship between technology and human rights in the context of climate change is reciprocal... Technology can contribute to protecting various human rights, but its applications may also have implications that require careful assessment." - Dr. Salem Suhail Al Neyadi, Chairperson of NHRI
Dr. Al Neyadi further stressed that technology should be evaluated based on scientific principles, risk assessments, transparency, and accountability while considering privacy, personal data protection, and environmental impacts. He highlighted the importance of a just and inclusive transition to a low-emissions economy, leaving no one behind.
The report also acknowledged the UAE's national framework promoting climate action, innovation, and clean energy, including initiatives such as:
- UAE Energy Strategy 2050
- UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative
- Masdar's renewable energy projects
- Al Reyadah carbon capture project
- Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park
- Development of low-emissions hydrogen technology
- AI applications in climate management