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UN Declares Sea Level Rise Existential Threat
28 Sep
Summary
- UN General Assembly adopted the first-ever UN Declaration on Sea Level Rise.
- Declaration recognizes rising sea level as an existential threat.
- It addresses territory loss and coastal erosion for vulnerable nations.
The United Nations General Assembly has adopted the first-ever UN Declaration on Sea Level Rise, acknowledging it as an existential threat. This declaration specifically addresses the challenges faced by low-lying nations, including territory loss from rising seas and coastal erosion.
Sea level rise is driven by global warming, causing glaciers to melt and seawater to expand as it warms. This phenomenon poses a significant risk to low-lying islands, leading to coastal erosion, flooding, and freshwater contamination.
Legally, rising sea levels create complex questions about statehood, as defined by territory and population. However, the UN Declaration asserts that losing territory due to sea level rise does not automatically mean losing statehood. It upholds the sovereignty and UN membership of affected states.
The declaration also calls for international support for nations impacted by sea level rise. Furthermore, it confirms that countries can maintain their maritime zones even with physical changes to their coastlines, in accordance with international law.
