European Court: Switzerland's Climate Inaction Violated Human Rights
The Facts
The European Court of Human Rights on Tuesday found that Switzerland violated the human rights of its citizens when its climate change policies failed to protect them from climate impacts.
The Court, which rejects on average 90% of the cases received, expedited its review of three climate-based cases — including the case against Switzerland because of its cascading impact on three other courts examining government climate policy.
The Spin
Narrative A
Switzerland has been and will remain committed to its net zero target. This landmark ruling does not change the level of devotion granted to slashing emissions. While this ruling doesn't make much sense with respect to Switzerland, the government will take time to review its recommendations and determine how to shape future actions.
Narrative B
While some cases were thrown out, the success of the Swiss women's case was a win for Switzerland, Europe, and beyond. Their case proves that governments have a responsibility to protect the physical and mental health of their people — and to not do so is a clear violation of human rights. This is a pivotal moment for the sustainability of humanity's future.
Narrative C
Climate and environmental disasters have been predicted by modern-day doomsayers for decades. None of the apocalyptic predictions have come true so far. It's irresponsible to codify public policy consequences when the climate debate is still unsettled.