Advocacy

The environmental problems we face today, such as climate change and the global demand for natural resources, are threatening the ability of vulnerable communities to safeguard their environment and improve the quality of their lives.

We at FIELD believe that these communities deserve a better deal, and see international cooperation as a way of achieving this.

We work to develop and strengthen international laws, agreements and institutions such that they promote sustainable development in vulnerable communities. We help communities use legal procedures to allow them fair representation in the development and application of international environmental laws and enable them to protect their environment.

"We at FIELD believe that vulnerable communities deserve a better deal."

One example of how we work is filing "amicus curiae" or "friends of the court" briefs on behalf of our clients in disputes before the World Trade Organization (WTO). These briefs allow parties not directly involved in the dispute to submit factual and legal arguments to a court when significant public interests are at stake.

FIELD draws up public legal opinions that advocate for environmental protection and sustainable development, and we are an active player in various international campaigning networks.

We help developing countries influence international negotiations on climate change and biodiversity. This work includes promoting positions, developing strategic approaches and providing guidance for indigenous peoples and other groups. Read our latest paper which was prepared for Inuit Circumpolar Council (Alaska) on ‘Ways for Indigenous Peoples' groups to advance adaptation concerns and solutions through international fora'.