4th ASEAN Environmental Law Conference

From July 31 to August 2, 2024, environmental law experts, advocates, and stakeholders from across the region gathered in Bangkok for the Fourth ASEAN Environmental Law Conference. Held at the Sindhorn Midtown Hotel, this hybrid event hosted over 150 participants from 12 countries, making it a significant platform for collaboration on environmental rights.

Organized by the Asian Research Institute for Environmental Law (ARIEL), Environmental Law Alliance Worldwide (ELAW), and other esteemed partners, the conference highlighted the theme "Using Law to Protect Environmental Rights in ASEAN." The event featured 10 sessions, a roundtable discussion, and a lineup of 42 distinguished speakers and moderators.

Day 1: Laying the Groundwork for Environmental Rights

The conference began with opening remarks from ARIEL Deputy Director Rocky Guzman and ELAW Attorney Genee Mislang. Matthew Baird, ARIEL’s Director, introduced the conference's history and agenda.

Keynote speakers set the tone for the discussions. UN Special Rapporteur Astrid Puentes-Riano emphasized the critical need for safe civic spaces for environmental defenders and access to justice for environmental protection. Ramon Magsaysay Awardee Roberto “Ka Dodoy” Ballon shared his community’s inspiring initiatives in sustainable coastal resource management and the empowerment of fisherfolk in the Philippines.

The day also featured sessions on the challenges and progress of drafting the ASEAN Environmental Rights Declaration, transparency in environmental governance, and the risks faced by environmental human rights defenders (EHRDs). The evening concluded with a networking session, fostering connections among participants.

Day 2: Inclusive Governance and Specialized Discussions

The second day explored inclusive environmental governance, highlighting the voices of vulnerable groups such as children, women, indigenous peoples, and the LGBTQIA+ community. Parallel sessions delved into oceans and marine environments, air pollution, and wildlife biodiversity.

Key insights included case studies on illegal fishing, strategic litigation for air quality improvement, and the role of constituency-building in wildlife protection. These discussions emphasized the need for collaborative approaches to tackle regional and global environmental challenges.

The day ended with consultative sessions focused on procedural environmental rights, addressing transparency, public participation, and access to justice.

Day 3: Global Trends and Call to Action

The final day examined global and regional trends in environmental law. Discussions ranged from climate litigation before international tribunals to public interest environmental litigation in China and the Philippines.

A roundtable on prosecuting wildlife crimes showcased innovative tools and strategies, while parallel sessions addressed pressing issues like plastic pollution and climate justice.

The conference concluded with recommendations and a call to action. ARIEL Director Matthew Baird summarized key outcomes, while organizers reaffirmed their commitment to advancing environmental rights in ASEAN.

A Collaborative Vision for the Future

The Fourth ASEAN Environmental Law Conference underscored the importance of collective action in safeguarding environmental rights. With gratitude extended to the partners, speakers, and participants, the event reaffirmed the resolve to create a sustainable future through legal frameworks and collaborative efforts.

As the region moves forward, the insights and connections fostered during this conference will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping environmental law and advocacy across ASEAN and beyond.