Space Communications

Atoll Island States and International Law

“…244 Although many of the climate negotiations focus on the issue of mitigation, adaptation measures can also offer advantages to various countries, as they increase innovation and as a result a country might choose to give greater weight to adaptation measures than mitigation. 247 Of course, relocating villages to 243 , p. 33. 246 As discussed in Chap.…”

“…Of course, intense and dramatic changes, such as tropical cyclones, volcanic eruptions or tsunamis can bring about irreversible changes, to which it is difficult to adapt and which can result in dramatic socio-economic changes. 247 It is important to stress the strong role that the chief of the villages (which are given the name of "Matai") plays in a society that has strong social connections, and how such social conditions allow for a quick decision-making process on how to adapt to the results of natural disasters. Though the coral reefs that are present in some locations offered some degree of protection and warning, nevertheless many villages decided to relocate to higher grounds.…”

“…Such ideas are stated clearly in the 1972 Stockholm Declaration on the Human Environment, which refers to the safeguard of the interests of present and future generations. 247 This is mentioned in Principle 16 of the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development. In addition, the 1984 United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment also has a preventive character.…”