HRC51: Statement of the Nordic-Baltic countries on the right to work in connection with climate change
27 September 2022, 51th Session of the UN Human Rights Council Panel Discussion on the future of the right to work in connection with climate change actions, responses and impacts in the context of sustainable and inclusive economies Statement delivered by the Permanent Representative Ambassador Darius Staniulis
Thank you, Mr. President,
I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Lithuania.
The negative impact of climate change on work environment is a worrisome reality. It is our common responsibility to implement human rights-based policies on climate change while ensuring effective enjoyment of the right to work. Special emphasis must be placed on promoting decent work for those most affected by climate change– women, indigenous peoples and communities in rural areas.
We thank the panellists for their insights on these issues and especially the ILO for comprehensive information and reports that highlight the urgency to reform and transit to green, sustainable and inclusive economies.
We note with concern that by 2030, 80 million jobs including those in essential services might be lost due to rising temperatures. This has to be taken into account and adaptation to new reality should start immediately to minimize the negative consequences and ensure the right to work.
The Nordic-Baltic countries continue to ensure access to adequate social protection, decent work, education and training opportunities for all through national programmes. It is particularly important to ensure the inclusion of women, as they often have less access to resources and tend to work in informal settings.
Distinguished panellists, as todays discussion is dedicated to explore practical examples of inclusive economies, how can we improve the inclusion of women in decision-making processes?
I thank you.
