Countries across Europe and Central Asia are facing mounting challenges from climate change and environmental degradation, which threaten both ecosystems and human rights. Communities are increasingly turning to the courts to hold polluters accountable, while international legal bodies stress that a healthy environment is fundamental to all human rights.

This fact sheet was designed to provide an accessible overview of the context, key challenges, and responses related to environmental justice in the region, aiming to inform and empower stakeholders—including governments, civil society, and the private sector—by highlighting the shared responsibility to protect people and the planet.

Structured to give a clear overview, the fact sheet outlines the regional context, summarizes key challenges, and presents UNDP’s targeted responses—such as legal reforms, judicial training, and partnerships with civil society and businesses. It features country examples and highlights UNDP’s field presence, offering a practical resource for advancing environmental justice across Europe and Central Asia.