Mary Robinson – Climate justice in an era of climate crisis

Mary Robinson, Planetary Guardian, Former President of Ireland, former United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, gives a keynote address at Chatham House's Climate and Energy Summit 2026. This keynote address explores the intersection between climate justice, human rights, and the geopolitics of a warming planet. It examines where governments and international organizations are falling short in protecting those most vulnerable to climate impacts and considers what forms of leadership and governance are needed to correct course. - How can leadership, governance, and international collaboration be strengthened to protect human rights as climate shocks intensify? - Where should global and national systems be reformed to ensure that climate action is people-centred, fair and grounded in human rights, even as geopolitical pressures increase? - And crucially: What would Mary Robinson do now, if she were back in her former role as President of Ireland, facing today’s climate, human rights, and geopolitical challenges? The session is chaired by Ana Yang, Director, Environment & Society Centre, Chatham House.