Indigenous Perspectives: The Living Forest Initiative Rights of nature require intercultural dialogue. Indigenous peoples actively advocate for them, but their worldviews and structures often differ from existing legal systems. By Jenny García Ruales
The UK Rights of Nature Movement Initiative The Rights of Nature (RoN) movement in the UK has been revitalised over recent years, with much of activists’ work focusing on local initiatives for river rights, networking projects as well as alternative, direct approaches. By Paul Powlesland and Alex May
Rights of Nature and German civil society Initiative Rights of Nature are a legal reality in many countries around the world and, since the recognition of the Spanish saltwater lagoon Mar Menor as a legal entity, also in Europe. In light of the ever-worsening ecological crises of our time, the idea of Rights of Nature has been gaining increasing traction in Germany. By Elena Ewering
Introducing Rights of Nature in Europe Initiative A legal revolution is underway: Natural entities are increasingly recognized as rights-holders, not property. The Rights of Nature movement, strong in South America, is gaining momentum in Europe. By Cat Haas, Laura Burgers and Alex Putzer
Empowering Nature's Voice: The Global Impact of the International Rights of Nature Tribunal Initative The International Tribunal of Rights of Nature (RoN) is a trailblazing citizen-driven initiative. Since 2014 the Tribunal serves as a public forum to address the widespread destruction of the Earth and advocates for a systemic alternative to conventional environmental protection and laws. By Jess Tyrrell
Culture Change: Creative Approaches and the Rights of Nature Initiative The Rights of Nature call for more than just legal change – they demand a cultural shift in how humans relate to their environment. Across Europe, artists and activists are embracing this movement through sound art, theater, exhibitions, publications, and performative gatherings. By Imke Horstmannshoff
An Urgent Shift: Wild Law in South Africa and beyond Initiative The protection of nature requires a new legal foundation. In South Africa and worldwide, the Wild Law Institute demonstrates how the rights of nature can redefine our relationship with the environment – for a more sustainable future. By Lesai Seema
Voicing Rivers Atrato for other possible futures Case Study The Atrato River in Colombia was recognized as a legal entity in 2016. Yet, environmental destruction and violence continue to threaten it. A community of guardians is fighting to voice the river and enforce its rights. By Dr. Phil. Elizabeth Gallon Droste
Rivers and Rights: Rights of Nature and Systemic Transformations in India Case Study India’s rivers are sacred yet heavily polluted. In 2017, the Ganges and Yamuna rivers were granted legal personhood, but the ruling was suspended. What role can the Rights of Nature play in India and what changes are needed to make them effective? By Shrishtee Bajpai
The Rights of Mother Earth in Bolivia: Progress and Challenges Case Study Bolivia made global headlines over a decade ago when it legally recognized the rights of nature. But how effective is this concept in the face of ongoing extractivism? A look at the opportunities, challenges, and limits of this legal paradigm shift. By Dr. Paola Villavicencio-Calzadilla