During the week leading up to Earth Day (April 22, 2023) different meetings and events were held regarding recognizing the Rights of Nature in the Aruban Constitution. Presentations were given to the Council of Ministers and the Parliament of Aruba. The minister responsible for the protection of nature, Minister Ursell Arends, submitted the draft law to the Department of Legislation and Legal Affairs. The week culminated with an Earth Day Forum, where local and international professionals gave presentations and participated in a panel discussion.
The draft law, which is an amendment of the Aruban Constitution, includes the human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment. The combination of articles for recognizing and enforcing the rights of nature, along with the human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment, underscores the interdependence between the well-being of humans and that of nature.
On a relatively small island that has experienced substantial touristic and economic developments, the importance of protecting nature is clear. Whether you link nature to our own existence, to resiliency against possible effects of climate change, or to the long-term success of our economy, recognizing the rights of nature makes sense. The goal is to establish harmony between humans and nature.
Next steps in realizing the recognition of the rights of nature in the Aruban Constitution include multiple consultations with various stakeholders, to inform, listen and garner broad support for a successful implementation of the Constitutional amendment. As a legislative lawyer and advisor to the minister, I will keep contributing to the process of realizing the recognition of the rights of nature in the Aruban Constitution. The Government of Aruba has the privilege of receiving support from local and international experts. We will continue our efforts and hope to not only realize the recognition of the rights of nature in the Aruban Constitution, but also inspire and encourage more countries to join this historical movement.
