Environmental Protection and Human Rights: a Comparative Study of Constitutional Law in Kuwait and Other gcc Countries

Abstract This article asserts that living in a healthy environment is a human right. As such, it is incumbent on nations to ensure adequate environmental protection to satisfy this right. This article reviews the legal frameworks currently in place in Kuwait and the gcc to preserve and protect the environment. The focus is on measures taken to reduce pollution. In addition to national constitutions that position the environment as a value, and a healthy environment as a human right, this article examines international declarations and other legal instruments that establish environmental protection as a duty of the state. Specific focus is additionally placed on the Islamic law provisions as represented by the gcc member-states. The article concludes with recommendations to strengthen environmental protection.