Lawyers have formed a new definition for ‘ecocide’, which places it on the same level as war crimes.
The draft legislation says ecocide is “unlawful”. It also outlines the “acts committed with knowledge that there is a substantial likelihood of severe and widespread or long-term damage to the environment”.
The law could become the fifth offence that the International Criminal Court prosecutes. It would become the first new international crime since Nazi leaders were prosecuted at the Nuremberg trials.
Jojo Mehta is the Chair of the Stop Ecocide Foundation, who says the event was a “historic moment”.
“This expert panel came together in direct response to a growing political appetite for real answers to the climate and ecological crisis.
“The world is waking up to the danger we are facing if we continue along our current trajectory.”
There is currently no legal framework in place to deal with ecocide at an international level. But ecocide could place perpetrators on trial at the ICC or in any ratifying jurisdiction.
Marie Toussaint has made it her mission to progress ecocide recognition in the European Union.
“After years and years of non-stop mobilisation and struggle all over the world, recognition of ecocide has gained strength and public support.”
“This recognition is essential if we want to protect all life on our planet, as well as peace and human rights.”
The draft follows six months deliberations between 12 international criminal and environmental lawyers from around the world.
Last month, Australia’s Federal Court found the nation’s Environment Minister has a duty of care to protect young people from climate change.
