ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the relationship between human rights, environmental protection, and good governance. It discusses whether a rights and justice framework would be useful, particularly in relation to vulnerable communities who are disproportionately affected by environmental issues. According to the United Nations Development Programme, the strongest test of good governance is the degree to which state institutions effectively guarantee the right to basic needs such as adequate housing, sufficient food, quality education, justice, social protection, and a secure and clean environment. The Council of Europe has adopted 12 principles of good governance, including transparency, accountability, sustainability, fair conduct of elections and participation, respect for the rule of law, sound fiscal management, and respect for human rights, cultural diversity, and social cohesion. The United Nations Convention against Corruption adopted in 2003 is an important step forward in the fight against corruption. The purpose of the Convention is to promote and strengthen measures to prevent and combat corruption more efficiently and effectively.
