Chapter 1 - Preamble

Section 1 - Social & Economic Dimensions

Section 2 - Conservation and Management of Resources

Section 3 - Strengthening the Role of Major Groups

Section 4 - Means of Implementation
Chapter 33
Chapter 34
Chapter 35
Chapter 36
Chapter 37
Chapter 38
Chapter 39
Chapter 40

Complete text of Agenda 21: Chapter 39
Chapter 39: International Law

International law on sustainable development needs to be developed in ways that observe the delicate balance between the needs for development and for environmental protection.

Current international environmental laws should be reviewed and developed to make them more effective. International laws should also promote the integration of environment and development policies. Conflicts between environmental and social or economic agreements should be identified and resolved.

The major goals in international law on sustainable development should include:

• The development of universally negotiated agreements that create effective international standards for environmental protection, taking account of the different situations and abilities of various countries.
• An international review of the feasibility of establishing general rights and obligations of nations in the field of sustainable development.
• Measures to avoid or settle international disputes in the field of sustainable development. These measures can range from notification and talks on issues that might lead to disputes, to the use of the International Court of Justice.

It is essential that all countries participate in the creation of international treaties on sustainable development. Many existing international environmental agreements were drafted without adequate participation by developing countries. Such pacts may need to be reviewed to reflect the concerns and interests of those nations.

International environmental standards should recognize the different situations and capabilities of countries that are in transition to internationally agreed environmental objectives. Environmental policies should deal with the root causes of environmental degradation, and should not be used to create unnecessary restrictions on international trade.

Developing countries should be given support for their national efforts to implement international agreements, and to participate effectively in the negotiation of new or revised agreements, and in their implementation. This should include financial support and assistance in building up expertise in international law on sustainable development. Support should also include the necessary reference information and scientific and technical expertise that they need to participate in legal agreements.

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