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The Sierra Leone Law Students Association (SLeLSA), a prominent organization representing law students from various universities across the country, is preparing to host its first-ever national conference under the theme: “Environmental Justice in the Era of Climate Change.”
This timely event will focus on the critical role of environmental justice in addressing the growing threats posed by climate change, especially to Sierra Leone’s vulnerable populations.
SLeLSA has long been committed to advancing the legal education and professional development of future lawyers in Sierra Leone.
By organizing this conference, the association aims to encourage law students and legal professionals to engage deeply with environmental issues that intersect with human rights and social justice.
As climate change continues to intensify, the legal profession will play an increasingly pivotal role in shaping policies that protect communities from the adverse effects of environmental degradation.
The conference will explore the significant impact climate change is having on human rights in Sierra Leone, including access to clean water, food security, and adequate housing—areas heavily affected by environmental changes.
International frameworks such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) protect these fundamental rights, but existing national laws are struggling to keep pace with the scale of environmental challenges.
The event promises to be a landmark gathering of legal minds, policymakers, environmental advocates, and international experts. Together, they will examine how Sierra Leone’s legal framework can be reformed to strengthen environmental protections and ensure that marginalized communities receive the justice they deserve in the face of climate change.
The focus will be on developing strategies to enhance legal accountability for environmental harm while promoting sustainable development.
One of the key highlights of the conference will be a keynote address by Alhaji Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy, and Food Security. Dr. Yumkella, an influential figure in global climate policy, will provide insights into the urgent need for Sierra Leone to prioritize climate action and integrate environmental justice into national policies.
The conference marks a crucial step in SLeLSA’s broader mission to foster a strong legal profession that is responsive to the national and global challenges posed by climate change.
Through this event, the association aims to empower law students to become leaders in legal advocacy, contributing to the development of policies that promote environmental justice for all Sierra Leoneans.
