United Nations World Commission on Environment and Development
Introduction
The United Nations World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED), also known as the Brundtland Commission, was established in 1983 by the United Nations General Assembly. Its primary mandate was to address the accelerating deterioration of the human environment and natural resources and the consequences of that deterioration for economic and social development. The commission was tasked with formulating a global agenda for change, which culminated in the publication of the landmark report, "Our Common Future," in 1987. This report is credited with popularizing the concept of Sustainable Development, which seeks to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Historical Context
The establishment of the WCED occurred during a period of growing awareness of environmental issues and their global implications. The 1972 United Nations Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm marked the beginning of international environmental diplomacy, leading to the creation of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). By the early 1980s, it became evident that environmental degradation was not only a local or national issue but a global one, necessitating a coordinated international response.
Formation and Mandate
The WCED was formed in response to a resolution passed by the United Nations General Assembly, which recognized the need for a comprehensive approach to environmental and developmental challenges. The commission was chaired by Gro Harlem Brundtland, the then Prime Minister of Norway, and consisted of 22 members from various countries, representing a diverse range of expertise and perspectives.
The commission's mandate included the following objectives:
- To re-examine critical environmental and development issues and formulate innovative, concrete, and realistic action proposals.
- To strengthen international cooperation on environment and development.
- To raise the level of understanding and commitment to action on the part of individuals, voluntary organizations, businesses, institutes, and governments.
Key Contributions
The most significant contribution of the WCED was the introduction and popularization of the concept of sustainable development. This concept has since become a guiding principle for international development and environmental policy.
Our Common Future
The commission's report, "Our Common Future," also known as the Brundtland Report, was published in 1987. It provided a comprehensive analysis of the interconnections between economic development, environmental degradation, and social equity. The report emphasized the need for a new era of economic growth that is both environmentally sustainable and socially inclusive.
The report identified several critical areas for action, including:
- Population and human resources
- Food security
- Species and ecosystems
- Energy
- Industry
- Urbanization
The report also called for a new global partnership to address these challenges, emphasizing the importance of multilateral cooperation and the role of international institutions in facilitating sustainable development.
Influence on International Policy
"Our Common Future" had a profound impact on international policy and discourse. It laid the groundwork for the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), also known as the Rio Earth Summit. The summit resulted in the adoption of key international agreements, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the Convention on Biological Diversity, and Agenda 21, a comprehensive action plan for sustainable development.
The concept of sustainable development has since been integrated into numerous international agreements and frameworks, including the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Legacy and Criticisms
The WCED and its report have left a lasting legacy on global environmental and development policy. However, the commission and its work have also faced criticisms and challenges.
Legacy
The Brundtland Report's emphasis on the interconnectedness of environmental, economic, and social issues has influenced a wide range of policies and initiatives at both national and international levels. It has inspired the creation of numerous organizations and networks dedicated to promoting sustainable development, including the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED) and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD).
The report's call for a new global partnership has also led to increased collaboration between governments, businesses, and civil society organizations in addressing environmental and development challenges.
Criticisms
Despite its contributions, the WCED and its report have faced criticisms. Some critics argue that the concept of sustainable development is too vague and lacks clear, actionable guidelines. Others contend that the report's emphasis on economic growth may conflict with environmental sustainability, as it does not adequately address the need to reduce consumption and resource use.
Additionally, some critics have pointed out that the report's recommendations have not been fully implemented, and progress towards sustainable development has been uneven. Issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and inequality continue to pose significant challenges, highlighting the need for ongoing efforts and innovation in addressing these complex problems.
Conclusion
The United Nations World Commission on Environment and Development played a pivotal role in shaping the global discourse on environment and development. Its report, "Our Common Future," introduced the concept of sustainable development, which remains a central tenet of international policy and practice. While the commission's work has faced criticisms and challenges, its legacy continues to inspire efforts towards a more sustainable and equitable future.