Justice, Rights and Nature

‘Rights of nature’ (RoN) is an emerging and evolving paradigm that recognises the intrinsic rights of ecosystems and species to evolve, flourish, and regenerate. The possibility of adopting a rights of nature approach on the island of Ireland has been the subject of increasing attention, with academics, NGOs and grassroots communities exploring how a concept that has been adopted in...

Peaceful protest has been a key tool in many of the most significant social movements for equality and against oppression, and the right to protest is a fundamental part of our democracy. This guide tells you about: ■ Your right to protest under Northern Ireland (NI) law1 ; ■ What you are allowed to do at a protest; and ■...

This independent research report titled ‘The Environment, Human Rights and the Windsor Framework’ was commissioned by the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission and authored by Dr Ciara Brennan, Dr Mary Dobbs, Dr Orla Kelleher, Ms Alison Hough BL and Dr Lisa Claire Whitten. The report examines the relationship between Article 2 of the Windsor Framework, which deals with the rights...

Tackling the ecological crisis at Lough Neagh requires urgent interventions viewed through an environmental justice lens. This approach highlights three key areas: Distributive justice: Issues around ownership and environmental governance. Procedural justice: Gaps in accountability, conflicts of interest, lack of cross-border cooperation, and insufficient public participation in decision-making. Recognition: Addressing the legacy of colonial dispossession. To create a just and...

On 15 January 2025, a public inquiry into the controversial Curraghinalt Gold Mine application in Co. Tyrone was suspended due to the Northern Ireland Department for Infrastructure's failure to notify the Irish Government and conduct required transboundary consultation. The mine, the largest in the island's history, is located in an environmentally sensitive area, including the River Foyle and River Finn...