Green expectations: NAM summit on environmental sustainability and rights

In the heart of Africa, a nation stands as a shining beacon for a sustainable tomorrow. Uganda has become the Focal point of global optimism, hosting the 19th summit of the Non-Aligned Movement where leaders from 120 nations unite for a brighter future.

History is written, with Uganda taking center stage in advancing unity and progress on the world platform. The initiation of this significant gathering represents a collective stride towards a tomorrow that is not just brighter but also more harmonious and interconnected.

Uganda has been struggling with the complicated challenges of climate change, environmental degradation, and human rights violations, international forums play a pivotal role in shaping the collective response to these pressing issues.

Uganda’s  hosting of the NAM (Non-Aligned Movement) Summit has ignited Green Expectations, since this union of global leaders not only showcases Uganda’s diplomatic competence but also underscores the urgent need for a collective effort in addressing the pressing issue of Climate change that affects vulnerable communities by threatening the basic rights to life, food, water, and health.

The NAM Summit in Uganda presents a unique opportunity for member nations to commit to collective action that not only reduces the impact of climate change but also upholds and safeguards the fundamental rights of their citizens. Uganda should take a bold step by placing these issues at the core of international deliberations since the summit provides a crucial platform to bridge the gap between environmental stewardship and the protection of human rights.

Uganda’s commitment to sustainability is marked in its emphasis on harnessing renewable energy sources. The country’s ambitious plans to invest in solar and wind energy projects demonstrate a progressive approach to combating climate change. Through investing in solar and wind energy, Uganda not only addresses its own energy needs but also actively contributes to the broader fight against climate change. Moreover, the NAM Summit provides an opportunity for nations to reexamine existing policies and commit to more ambitious environmental and human rights targets. Concrete action plans, backed by transparent accountability mechanisms, should be recommended to ensure that the commitments made at the summit translate into tangible results.

The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit has the potential to play a significant role in promoting both environmental sustainability and human rights protection through developing a clear and strong declaration on human rights which encompasses principles of non-discrimination, gender equality, protection of minority rights, freedom of expression and emphasizing the commitment of member states to uphold international human rights standards. It should also encourage member states to invest in and adopt renewable energy solutions through the sharing of technologies and expertise to accelerate the transition to Sustainable and clean energy sources.

 The NAM summit should also foster partnerships with NGOs and other entities actively working on environmental sustainability and human rights by collaborating on joint projects.

Uganda’s NAM Summit holds the hope of being a turning point in the global conversation on environmental sustainability and human rights. As the world struggles with the urgency of these interconnected challenges, the summit should provide a platform for nations to demonstrate their commitment to a greener, more equitable future. It is an opportunity that must not be wasted, and the world will be watching with green expectations for tangible outcomes.

Ms Caroline Kinkuhaire, Citizens’ Concern Africa Advocacy Officer