My Planet, My Rights – Global

Problem analysis

On the global level, there was no official recognition of a right to a healthy environment by the United Nations. On the local level, authorities often do not fulfil their duty to protect children from environmental harm and people lack awareness regarding the topic.

Project/practice formulation

The tdh International Youth Network called for this campaign which was agreed to by the tdh Delegates Conference 2018. Children closely collaborated with tdh staff to create the ‘My Planet, My Rights’ campaign with a strong media focus at its heart through an interactive website.

Implementation

The campaign involved the submission of a petition to the Secretary-General of the United Nations and the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child requesting to recognise the human right to a healthy environment in the UN General Assembly.

The worldwide campaign involved a huge number of youth groups and networks launching local action. Slogans and sharepics were used in digital campaigns and as posters in rallies. The use of hashtags such as #MyPlanentMyRights engaged the public in discussions around this topic on social media. Also, the campaign promoted the creation of a Digital Art Gallery, collecting artwork that envisions a healthy environment, created by children from across the world.

Results/ M&E

The campaign was highly successful. Firstly, the UN Human Rights Council recognised the right to a healthy environment. Secondly, the campaign generated several grassroot initiatives to promote ECR as well as higher level actions including the initiation of climate change litigation. Although the campaign has officially and successfully been closed, networks used the campaign and its slogans long time after to continue local actions.