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September 28, 2023

European Court Hears Historic Case from Portuguese Youth Suing 32 Nations over Climate Crisis
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In Strasbourg, France, a historic hearing unfolded Wednesday at the
European Court of Human Rights as six young people from Portugal
challenged 32 European governments over their failure to combat the
climate crisis, which they argue is a violation of their human rights.
This is one of the lawyers for the Portuguese youth.

Alison Mac Donald: "Today's case is about the young. It is about the
price that they are paying for the failure of states to tackle the
climate emergency. It is about the harm that they will suffer during
their lifetimes unless states step up to their responsibilities."

The case is being closely followed by climate activists around the
world. If successful, the 32 countries could be legally required to
rapidly reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. A ruling is expected in
the first half of next year.


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