This year could be deemed an important one for human rights. Whether we consider the worldwide student protests, the address of the young Greta Thunberg to politicians or the UK Supreme Court's decision in Vendata Resources plc v Lungowe there is no doubt that human rights have taken centre stage in mainstream discourse. Much of the discussion is focused on how states and corporations are failing to honour their human rights and environmental law obligations. For activists this is a positive step forward but what is the impact on corporations and governments?

A range of international treaties make provision for the protection of specified human and environmental rights. These have largely been negotiated under the auspices of the United Nations or at regional level. Despite the existence of international agreements, problems arise in the context of national implementation. Evolving case law has seen the recognition of rights such as access to food, water, land and clean air. Activists and lawyers continue to find novel ways to ensure greater compliance by States and corporations. However, continued litigation suggests an accountability vacuum. How can governments and corporations work towards developing better systems for compliance and avoid often complex and costly litigation? What are the risks if they do not? How can victims of human rights and environmental law violations overcome the accountability vacuum?