In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of environmental justice, and globally, courts must deal with an increasing number of complex environmental cases. Judges play a critical role in ensuring fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people concerning the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.

When adjudicating environmental justice cases, judges must consider a wide range of factors, including the complex scientific and legal issues involved, the impact of environmental degradation on marginalized communities, and the need to protect the environment for future generations.

However, many judges face challenges in adjudicating environmental justice cases, and the UNDP Judicial Integrity Network in ASEAN explores opportunities to assist judiciaries in better preparing for these evolving challenges.

The Needs Assessment Questionnaire, structured according to the UNDP strategy for engaging in environmental justice, aims to assist JIN ASEAN and its partners in gaining a clearer understanding of the requirements of judges in the Asia-Pacific region. The information gathered from this questionnaire will be used to develop targeted support programs and initiatives for judges, including:

• Specialized training and education programs on environmental law and science.
• Advocacy and outreach to promote judicial independence and accountability in environmental justice cases.

• Public awareness and education campaigns on environmental justice issues.

Based on the responses received so far, the Report provides a first snapshot of the specific needs of courts to effectively address environmental justice issues and challenges judges face in enhancing their capacity to adjudicate environmental justice cases.

The Questionnaire will help UNDP shape the training on environmental justice organized by JIN ASEAN in 2024. The training is part of UNDP’s ongoing efforts to advance environmental justice initiatives, offering opportunities for participation online or in person.