Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
The UNCSD and Environmental Justice
Drawing from the theoretical framework previously articulated, the
UNCSD provides an excellent intervention point for activists who hope
to advance policy instruments that favor environmental justice. In
particular, it meets all three criteria set forth by Clemmens and Cook
(1999). Levels of social heterogeneity are among the highest in any UN
body and are certainly the highest and most purposively created among
the two organizations reviewed here (Hemmati 2002; Doran and Van
Alstine 2007). Over 200 nonstate organization representatives attended
the fi rst UNCSD meeting in 1993, and by 2000, there were over 700 in
attendance (Dodds 2002). All associated meetings are open to accredited
nonstate actors, and the commission provides small grants to enable
traditionally underrepresented groups to send delegates (CBI 2002).
Responsibility for the achievement of sustainable development is clearly
ascribed to nonstate actors in Agenda 21 under the rubric of the Major
Groups, which include youth, farmers, women, indigenous peoples,
scientists, NGOs, industry, trade unions, and local authorities. Organiza-
tions in each of these Groups is authorized to send representation to the
UNCSD meetings, provided they seek and gain consultative or observer
status. The commission also has a broader interpretation of the types of
groups that can gain observer status than most UN agencies, allowing
local and regional organizations to apply as long as their work falls
within the purview of the UNCSD.
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Coordination of Major Groups
input is handled within the secretariat by an NGO liaison. The extent
to which these nonstate organizations are able to passively observe
offi cial meetings, organize their own meetings (in the form of caucuses
and side events), present their projects, intervene or speak at offi cial ses-
sions, and negotiate/lobby directly with government offi cials is unprec-
edented (Hemmati 2002; Dodds 2004).
Partnerships Fairs have been a part of CSD annual meetings since
2004 and include training sessions and highlight successful partnerships
across stakeholder groups that are recognized by the UNCSD secretariat
for their work toward the implementation of Agenda 21. Most partner-
ships are between or among governments, industry, scientists, and NGOs,
while only a small number incorporate the least represented groups, such
as indigenous peoples, women, and youth (UN Division for Sustainable
Development 2007). To encourage wider participation in such partner-
ships, the CSD organizes an annual Partnerships Fair, hosts an interactive
partnerships website, and publishes
Partnerships Wire
, a newsletter
featuring partnership initiatives and insights. According to the Secretary
