Empowering Local Authorities for Sustainable Development: The Council of Europe’s Role in Promoting Human Rights-Based Approaches
摘要
This chapter examines the role of the main bodies of the Council of Europe (CoE) in facilitating and promoting the use of the human rights-based approach by local and regional authorities, both in general and for sustainable development in particular. It identifies the intersection between local self-government, human rights, and sustainable development, analyses the main mechanisms and recent initiatives of the CoE’s bodies, and identifies challenges and opportunities for continuing and promoting the use of the human rights-based approach in local self-government in Europe. The chapter aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse on the role of local and regional authorities in CoE member states in promoting sustainable and human rights-based development at the local and regional level. Through a comprehensive qualitative analysis of CoE initiatives and policies, the chapter identifies strategies for integrating the sustainable development efforts into a human rights-based approach. It also explores how this approach contributes to creating more resilient and inclusive communities, while advancing key SDGs. The analysis provides practical recommendations for policymakers seeking to enhance the effectiveness and inclusiveness of sustainable development efforts.