Geneva, 6 March 2026
Mr. President,
I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States.
We thank the Special Rapporteur for the latest report highlighting the alarming correlation between air pollution and its negative impacts on public health and human rights.
Air pollution remains one of the greatest risks to human health, undermining the rights to life, health and an adequate standard of living. We concur with the Special Rapporteur that addressing air pollution requires urgent, continuous and rigorous efforts at all levels, supported by robust cross-border cooperation.
The Nordic – Baltic States are proud to be home to some of the cleanest air worldwide, reflecting our steadfast commitment to combating air pollution, safeguarding human health and fostering environmental sustainability.
We are confident that investing in clean air is investing in the resilience and future of our communities, and an essential component of achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals, with direct impacts on health, sustainable cities and climate action.
Madame Special Rapporteur, what further concrete steps can be taken to raise awareness among communities, especially vulnerable populations, about the health and human rights risks and impacts of air pollution?
I thank you.