UN Adopts Declaration on Sea-Level Rise and Statehood Continuity
What happened
The United Nations General Assembly adopted a declaration addressing questions that arise as countries lose or see changes to their land territory due to sea-level rise. The declaration supported the continuity of statehood even when sea-level rise changes a country's territory. It also called for responses to sea-level rise to reinforce existing legal instruments, including international law under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Why it matters
The declaration provides guidance on how international law should manage the impacts of climate change on sovereign entities. It specifically addresses the challenges faced by low-lying areas and coastal cities globally.
A UN report warned of sea-level rise threats, placing coastal cities including Mumbai and Kolkata at risk.
Who's involved
- United Nations General AssemblyThe principal organ of the United Nations that adopted the declaration.
- United NationsThe global organization whose conventions and organs were referenced in the declaration.
- stateThe concept of a sovereign state whose existence is discussed in the context of the declaration.
Keep exploring
The entities involved
-
Mumbai
port in India
- BMC implements water austerity measures and manages the city's water supply during a monsoon-induced crisis in Mumbai, with the Indian Navy utilizing treated sewage water.
- Higher crude oil prices and geopolitical concerns in the Strait of Hormuz are impacting global markets and specific companies in India.
-
United Nations General Assembly
principal organ of the United Nations
-
state
organised community living under a system of government; either a sovereign state, constituent state, or federated state