The open-ended ad hoc working group on access to justice in environmental matters is coordinated by the Parties, will include one elected representative of the public and benefit from the support of renowned experts on the subject, meaningful public participation and the assistance of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean in its capacity as Secretariat, and which will serve as a forum for dialogue and discussion to analyse the best ways to implement article 8 of the Escazú Agreement and strengthen the capacities of the Parties and the public in this area.
The first meeting of the working group aims to:
- Introduce the group coordinators and propose a working methodology
- Hold a dialogue with invited legal experts to identify the working group's priorities regarding access to environmental justice
- Receive input on potential activities to fulfill the mandate
- Provide information on future actions and next steps
Schedule
9.00 – 9.45 am
Welcome and introduction to the working group
Chair of the Presiding Officers, working group coordinators and elected representative of the public
9.45 – 10.15 am
Introduction to article 8 of the Escazú Agreement
Secretariat
10.15 – 10.30 am
Break
10.30 am – 12.00 pm
Open dialogue with experts on developments and priorities to consider on access to justice in environmental matters
12.00 – 12.30 pm
Interventions by Parties and the public on access to justice in environmental matters
12.30 pm
Closing remarks
