Aarhus Convention: Council Decision to Strengthen Access to Justice in Environmental Matters

The Council today asked the Commission to submit a study on the Aarhus Convention. The aim of the Aarhus Convention is to guarantee access to information, public participation in decision-making and access to justice in environmental matters. The EU and its member states are fully committed to the Convention and its objectives.

The study requested today is a result of the outcome of findings of the Aarhus Convention Compliance Committee following an alleged failure by the EU to comply with the Convention's provisions on access to justice. It will set out options for improving access to justice for the public and NGOs in environmental matters, including a possible review of the relevant EU legislation.