Grandmas took Switzerland to court and won
10 April 2024
A group of over 2,000 elderly Swiss women – named "Senior Women for Climate Protection" took Switzerland to court and won an unprecedented ruling. On Tuesday, the European Court of Human Rights ruled that the Swiss government violated its citizens’ human rights by failing to curb emissions and stop climate change. The landmark judgment could set a precedent across the world.
"I’ve realised how climate change will restrict us", said Oda Müller to the Swiss newspaper Blick. The 79-year-old was at the forefront of the senior group. "I am also doing this for my children and grandchildren." The plaintiffs argued that they were at particular risk of dying during heatwaves and protested their government's inadequate efforts to fight climate change, putting their quality of life at stake.
The judges agreed that there were critical gaps in Switzerland’s efforts to combat climate change. For example, no limit was determined on how much CO2 per capita can be emitted, and self-imposed targets were not achieved. This amounted to a violation of the women’s right to privacy, which also includes a healthy life.
 | Céline Zahno This is the first time that an international court ruled on climate change, and the first ruling which states that countries are obligated to protect their citizens from the effects of climate change. A turning point for climate change litigation, it sets a precedent across the globe and could open the door for numerous similar lawsuits in the future. The judgment is legally binding. However, the exact consequences for Switzerland are yet to be determined. The court did not specify any measures but will monitor whether the judgment is implemented. The baton is handed over to politics now. |
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