In a landmark ruling with far-reaching implications, the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) has declared that the Swiss government failed in its duty to combat climate change effectively, thereby violating the human rights of its citizens. The verdict, announced on Tuesday, represents a significant victory for over 2,000 Swiss women, known as KlimaSeniorinnen, who brought the case to court.
The ruling, delivered by Court President Siofra O’Leary, emphasized the Swiss government’s failure to meet its own targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and to establish a national carbon budget. O’Leary highlighted the dire consequences of present inaction on climate change, warning that future generations are likely to bear the brunt of these failures.
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Reacting to the decision, Rosmarie Wydler-Wälti, one of the leaders of KlimaSeniorinnen, expressed disbelief at the magnitude of the victory, stating, “It’s the most you could have had. The biggest victory possible.” The Swiss Federal Office of Justice, representing the government, acknowledged the ruling and pledged to analyze it thoroughly to determine future measures.
This ruling sets a precedent not only for Switzerland but also for all 46 countries signatories to the European Convention on Human Rights. It establishes a legal obligation for Switzerland to intensify its efforts in reducing emissions, with potential repercussions if it fails to do so. Lucy Maxwell, co-director of the Climate Litigation Network, warned that further litigation could follow if Switzerland does not update its policies.
The verdict is expected to influence future climate-related rulings within Europe and globally. Ruth Delbaere, legal campaigns director at Avaaz, described it as a “crucial legally binding precedent” for holding governments accountable for climate failures.
