The Right to a Clean, Healthy and Sustainable Environment in Brunei Darussalam

The right to a clean, safe, healthy and sustainable environment is fundamental to enjoying many other human rights. This right was formally recognised by the United Nations Human Rights Council on 8 October 2021, and endorsed by the UN General Assembly in July 2022. While over 161 countries now recognise this right in their national legal systems, international recognition creates new opportunities for its incorporation into global legal frameworks and for stronger national implementation. This paper explores the legal dimensions of this right within the context of Brunei Darussalam. Using a library-based legal research methodology, it draws on primary and secondary legal sources. The findings suggest that, although the Constitution of Brunei Darussalam contains no explicit or implied reference to environmental rights, the nation upholds this principle by committing to Sustainable Development Goal 6, which aims to ensure everyone has access to clean, affordable drinking water. The paper argues that, like other human rights, environmental rights are dynamic and will continue to evolve in response to future global challenges, including those posed by microplastics, nanotechnology and drone technology. The paper concludes by recommending that Brunei Darussalam strengthen its environmental protections in order to address mounting challenges such as population growth, urbanisation, industrialisation and other aspects of socio-economic development.