Climate Change and Achieving Climate Justice within the Framework of Sustainable Development:

A Study of International and Libyan National Frameworks

Abstract

This study examines climate change and the achievement of climate justice within the framework of sustainable development, as contemporary issues that extend beyond the environmental sphere to encompass legal, humanitarian, economic, and social dimensions, given their implications for human rights and the requirements of sustainable development. The study aims to explain the concept of climate change, its causes, manifestations, and impacts; establish the conceptual and legal foundations of climate justice; and examine its relationship with sustainable development and human rights. It does so by analyzing the relevant international and national legal frameworks, assessing legislative and institutional responses in Libya, and identifying ways to strengthen climate justice at the national level. The research problem concerns the extent to which international and national legal frameworks are adequate to address the challenges associated with climate change and fulfill the requirements of climate justice. The study adopts a descriptive-analytical methodology, examining relevant international agreements and legal instruments, Libyan legislation, national policies, and institutional arrangements relating to environmental protection and climate change. The findings reveal a gap between international commitments and their implementation in the field of climate justice, particularly with regard to climate finance mechanisms, technology transfer, and addressing loss and damage. The study also identifies disparities between developed and developing countries in the distribution of climate-related burdens and benefits. In Libya, the analysis indicates that although a legislative and institutional framework for environmental protection exists, it lacks specific and comprehensive regulation of climate change and climate justice. Institutional, financial, and technical challenges further constrain the effective implementation of international commitments. The study recommends developing Libya’s legislative and institutional framework, strengthening climate monitoring, data collection, and climate finance mechanisms, expanding renewable energy use, and enhancing international cooperation and technology transfer. These measures would contribute to environmental protection, safeguard fundamental human rights, and support Libya’s progress toward sustainable development.