Constitution of Ecuador (2008)

The 2008 charter that became the first national constitution to recognize enforceable rights of nature.

Overview

Drafted by a Constituent Assembly meeting in Montecristi and approved by referendum in September 2008 during the presidency of Rafael Correa, the Ecuadorian Constitution is best known for recognizing nature, or Pacha Mama, as a holder of rights to exist, persist, and regenerate, which any person may ask courts to enforce. It also embraces the Andean concept of sumak kawsay, translated as buen vivir or good living, as a guiding principle of development, and expands social rights and state planning. Ecuadorian courts have since applied the rights of nature in cases involving rivers and mining in protected forests, making the text a reference point for environmental law worldwide.