North Kivu : Victory for the Environment, Goma Court Upholds ACEDH’s Climate Action Rights

In a landmark decision rendered on July 9, 2024, at the Goma Courthouse, the Court ruled in favor of the Congolese Alert for Environment and Human Rights (ACEDH) in a critical case against the Democratic Republic of Congo. This case, centered on the inefficiency of protective measures for Virunga National Park and the need for stronger actions to counter encroachment and preserve biodiversity, marked a significant turning point for environmental law in the DRC.

Olivier Ndoole, ACEDH’s coordinator, expressed satisfaction in an interview with Kilalopress, highlighting the importance of the decision which affirms his organization’s right to legal action for the environment. Initially challenged by the DRC on technical grounds, ACEDH’s action was validated by the court, which recognized its legitimacy in holding accountable for environmental damages in Virunga Park.