Summary

In this 2019 report to the General Assembly, the Special Rapporteur on human rights and hazardous substances and wastes (toxics) reminds the international community of the State's duty to prevent exposure to toxics. The Special Rapporteur discusses the legal basis of this duty, and highlights how exposure prevention is the exception, leading to existential threats to life and health, including reproduction. He examines the rights to life, health, a life with dignity and bodily integrity, among others. The Special Rapporteur explains the importance of this duty to the human rights to a healthy environment, safe and healthy work, among others impacted by pollution and other sources of toxic exposure. The report concludes with recommendations to States, and regional and international human rights bodies.

More on the duty to prevent exposure