Global Frameworks
Ensuring the world stays sustainable and fair for the future
The world of global governance is always changing, but there are already some frameworks in place that excel at prioritising the needs of future generations.
They're not just legal papers and agreements – they’re stories of our promise passed down from generation to generation to make sure the world stays sustainable and fair for the future.
Let’s dive into nine of the key frameworks that tell our dedication to thinking, planning and acting for the future.
1. United Nations Charter (1945)
After World War II, with the world in pieces, countries came together and said "never again". They signed the United Nations Charter on June 26, 1945, with the goal of keeping peace and security – as its preamble says, to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war. This Charter has been the guide for peacekeeping missions ever since.
2. Brundtland Report (1987)
Fast forward to 1987, and serious concerns are beginning to be raised about the state of the environment. Enter Our Common Future, also known as the Brundtland Report. This report defined sustainable development – doing what we need to now to safeguard the planet for future generations – and you can see its impact in all sorts of environmental policies around the globe.
3. Convention on Biological Diversity (1992)
In 1992, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) came out of the Rio Earth Summit. It’s all about protecting biodiversity, using it wisely, and sharing the benefits fairly, and protecting ecosystems so future generations can enjoy a planet that’s full of natural wonders.
4. UN Declaration on Responsibilities to Future Generations (1997)
In 1997, the UN went bold with a declaration about looking out for future generations. World leaders realized that we’ve got to manage our resources wisely and make sure our actions today don’t mess things up for the future. This declaration has inspired many global policies focused on sustainability and fairness, reminding us that what we do now echoes for a long time.
5. Bamako Convention (1998)
The next year, Africa took a big step with the Bamako Convention. This regional agreement said no to importing hazardous waste into Africa, protecting people and the environment from nasty pollutants. It’s a great example of regional teamwork in tackling environmental issues, making sure future generations are safe from environmental harm.
6. Sustainable Development Goals (2015)
2015 was a huge year. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were adopted – 17 goals tackling everything from poverty and hunger to climate action and gender equality. The SDGs are a global call to action, urging everyone to work together to hit these targets by 2030. They’re all about not leaving anyone behind and pushing for a just and fair world. Countries are on board, weaving the SDGs into their national plans, showing a shared dedication to the future.
7. Paris Agreement (2015)
Also in 2015, the Paris Agreement was a game changer. It aims to keep global warming way below 2 degrees Celsius, ideally 1.5 degrees. This agreement is all about countries committing to cut greenhouse gas emissions, taking real steps to protect the climate for future generations. Plus, it emphasizes supporting developing countries with finances and tech, ensuring a global, inclusive approach to tackling climate change.
8. Maastricht Principles on the Rights of Future Generations (2023)
This is a big one in international law. Developed over six years, the Maastricht Principles clarify human rights laws as they apply to future generations, drawing from treaties, constitutions, and Indigenous knowledge. They make it clear that human rights aren’t just for the present – future generations have these rights too. These principles give detailed guidance on legal regimes, aiming to protect future generations from irreversible harm like environmental degradation and climate change.
9. UN General Assembly Resolution (2023)
In a groundbreaking move, the UN General Assembly asked for an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice on states' legal responsibilities regarding climate change. This resolution reflects a growing consensus on the need for judicial clarity on international climate commitments. The anticipated advisory opinion aims to enhance accountability and potentially drive more robust climate actions globally. This initiative underscores the critical role of legal frameworks in addressing the pressing issue of climate change and protecting the interests of future generations.
These frameworks not only outline the collective aspirations of nations but also weave a narrative of hope, responsibility, and resilience.
They remind us that while we navigate present challenges, our gaze must remain firmly fixed on the horizon, ensuring that future generations inherit a world that thrives.
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