Climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing humanity, as it already affects temperatures, hydrologic conditions, ecosystem functioning, and agricultural productivity in many regions. These impacts constitute a serious interference with the exercise of fundamental human rights, such as the rights to life, health, water, food, housing, and an adequate standard of living. Most vulnerable groups whose fundamental rights are already at risk are particularly affected. Therefore, we must embed human rights discussions in our responses to climate change. More conversation is needed that connects human rights and climate change, both in academic and research circles and amongst the wider public, to enhance climate justice and to strengthen climate resilience. The Royal Society of Edinburgh and the Human Rights Committee of the German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina continue to contribute to global thinking on this matter.

During the symposium, experts from the fields of science, politics and society will discuss how climate change impacts human rights and what measures are possible and needed to strengthen the human rights of those affected. We will look to address implications for climate change research and look forward to welcoming an international audience to interactive sessions with keynote speakers and panellists.

The Human Rights Committee of the German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina is organising its 9th Human Rights and Science Symposium, this time jointly with the Royal Society of Edinburgh, Scotland’s National Academy, on the topic “Human Rights and Climate Change”. Join us virtually before the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) commences the following week (1–12 November 2021) in Glasgow city.