GENEVA

The UN human rights chief on Friday welcomed a decision by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights affirming that states in the Americas have legal obligations to address the climate crisis, calling it a "landmark step forward for the region -- and beyond."

"As the impact of climate change becomes ever more visible across the world, the Court is clear: people have a right to a stable climate and a healthy environment," Volker Turk said in a statement.

"States have a bedrock obligation under international law not to take steps that cause irreversible climate and environmental damage, and they have a duty to act urgently to take the necessary measures to protect the lives and rights of everyone -- both those alive now and the interests of future generations," he added.

The court's advisory opinion, released earlier this week, underscored that the worsening impacts of climate change are undermining fundamental rights and that governments must act urgently to protect both present and future generations.

The human rights office, which submitted its expert views to the court during the process, has long warned of the human cost of environmental degradation, Turk said, adding the court's opinion provides critical guidance to states navigating their climate responsibilities.

"Armed with the Court’s guidance, and that of others, including the UN Human Rights Office, States should be in no doubt about the existence and scope of their human rights obligations in this area," he said.

"There is an urgent need to take meaningful action -- through legislation, policy change, resource mobilisation and international cooperation -- to stop the climate crisis from worsening and ensure those affected have access to justice. I once again urge them to do so," Turk added.