Landmark Climate Ruling: Switzerland Falls Short on Human Rights Obligations

Historic Decision and Its Implications

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) made history in April 2024 by ruling that governments must do more to protect their citizens from the impacts of climate change. This groundbreaking decision came in response to a lawsuit filed by a group of older Swiss women who argued that their human rights were being violated due to Switzerland’s failure to adequately address climate change. The court agreed, stating that Switzerland had not fulfilled its obligations to combat climate change and reduce emissions. Six months later, Switzerland attempted to close the case, claiming full compliance with the court’s requirements. However, the Committee of Ministers, which oversees the implementation of ECHR judgments, found that while some progress had been made, Switzerland had not yet demonstrated full compliance with the ruling.

A Victory for Environmental Rights

Environmentalists and human rights advocates have hailed the ECHR’s decision as a major victory. Rosmarie Wydler-Wälti, co-president of Senior Women for Climate Protection and one of the plaintiffs, emphasized the significance of the ruling: "The Swiss Federal Council is not getting away with its arguments at the Committee of Ministers. Switzerland must improve its climate policy to remedy the violation of our human rights." The group, which represents around 2,000 older women across Switzerland, argued that they are disproportionately affected by the extreme heat waves exacerbated by climate change. Their case highlights the urgent need for governments to prioritize the protection of vulnerable populations, including the elderly, in their climate policies.

The Ongoing Battle for Compliance

Following a three-day meeting, the Committee of Ministers requested additional information from the Swiss government. Specifically, they asked for details on "concrete measures being taken to alleviate the most severe or imminent consequences of climate change in Switzerland, including any particular needs for protection, especially for persons in vulnerable situations." The Committee will reconvene in September to reassess Switzerland’s progress. Meanwhile, the Swiss government has push