Human rights and nature-based strategies for environmental protection and preventing future pandemics

Abstract

This article examines the proposed pandemic treaty, focusing on the Zero Draft released by the World Health Organization, and evaluates its effectiveness in preventing future pandemics. It argues that the current draft inadequately addresses environmental degradation as a key driver of zoonotic spillover and lacks robust mechanisms for implementing and enforcing legal obligations. The paper emphasizes the potential of human rights and rights of nature frameworks to strengthen environmental governance and advance the One Health approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health to mitigate pandemic risks. Drawing on rights-based approaches from other contexts, the article suggests these frameworks can drive meaningful policy reform and accountability to curb ecological destruction and biodiversity loss, thereby reducing disease transmission from nature. It critiques the Zero Draft for its limited incorporation of substantive rights, such as the right to health and a healthy environment, and procedural rights like participation and accountability. Furthermore, it highlights the absence of rights of nature, which could enhance environmental protection. The article concludes that a stronger emphasis on rights-based approaches in future drafts is essential to align with the One Health agenda, ensuring both human and environmental health are prioritized to prevent future pandemics. By addressing these gaps, the treaty could better tackle the root causes of zoonotic diseases and foster more effective global health governance.