NHRI Advocates Human Rights Integration in Climate Technology Development
The National Human Rights Institution has submitted recommendations to the UN emphasising the need for comprehensive human rights assessments throughout the lifecycle of climate technologies, from research through deployment.
The National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) has advanced a comprehensive framework for integrating human rights considerations throughout all stages of climate technology development, submitting formal recommendations to the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Climate Change.
The institution’s report emphasises the necessity of conducting rigorous human rights and environmental impact assessments from the research and development stage onwards, extending through to full deployment of technologies. The NHRI advocates for meaningful participation of affected communities, ensuring their access to pertinent information, and protecting the rights of workers engaged in technology development and implementation.
Dr. Salem Suhail Al Neyadi, Chairperson of the NHRI, underscored the reciprocal relationship between technology and human rights within the climate context. He noted that whilst technology can advance fundamental rights—including access to life, health, water, food, housing and a sustainable environment—certain applications may present implications for both human rights and environmental protection, warranting thorough assessment throughout their operational lifecycle.
The Chairperson stressed that technological solutions should not be deemed safe or sustainable solely on account of their low-carbon designation. Rather, decisions regarding such technologies must rest upon scientific evidence, comprehensive risk assessment, transparency and robust accountability mechanisms, whilst simultaneously safeguarding privacy, personal data, and considering broader impacts upon land, water resources, biodiversity and working conditions.
The NHRI’s recommendations encompass strengthening partnerships across governments, the private sector, scientific institutions and human rights bodies, alongside promoting equitable technology transfer and access. Dr. Al Neyadi emphasised that technology serves as a means of protecting people and enhancing their resilience to climate risks, rather than constituting an end in itself. He further stressed that the transition towards a low-emissions economy must remain just and inclusive, ensuring no segment of society is left behind.
The report highlighted the UAE’s comprehensive national framework linking climate action, innovation and clean energy, citing the UAE Energy Strategy 2050 and the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative. It examined exemplars from the nation’s experience, including Masdar’s renewable energy projects, the Al Reyadah carbon capture initiative, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, hydrogen technology development, and artificial intelligence applications in energy efficiency, water management, agricultural technologies and early warning systems.
The NHRI concluded that whilst technology represents one of the most significant tools available for addressing climate change, it remains far from neutral from a human rights perspective. The success of innovation, the institution affirmed, should ultimately be measured by the extent to which it safeguards and advances the wellbeing of both people and the environment.
Source: WAM