Public Voices and Environmental Decisions: The Escazú Agreement in Comparative Perspective

Abstract Since the Escazú Agreement entered into force in 2021, many have looked forward to realization of its goal further entrenching environmental democratic rights and enabling sustainable development Latin America Caribbean (LAC) region. The severe related human challenges region caught global attention, is most timely pursuit contributing addressing situation. This article assesses quality of, extent which, right public participate decision-making processes under can enable regime achieve goal, how best this might be strengthened where necessary. assessment executed within context local peculiarities LAC good practice field, as reflected Aarhus Convention UNEP Bali Guidelines. study finds that while aspects participatory are sound – align with or go beyond existing some key provisions require improvement order increase effectiveness Agreement.