A Short Introduction to the Rights of Nature: A Discourse on Its Philosophy and Recognition in International Law

At a critical juncture when Earth faces unprecedented ecological challenges, a fundamental reconceptualization of environmental protection has emerged: the Rights of Nature. This book examines the philosophical evolution and practical implementation of nature's rights across three dimensions. The analysis traces how religious doctrines, philosophical traditions, and economic systems have reinforced anthropocentric approaches to environmental protection. It explores the theoretical foundations of nature's rights, integrating classical critique with contemporary environmental ethics. It then analyzes how these rights can be recognized within international legal frameworks. Through examination of judicial precedents, constitutional innovations, and international instruments, this book illuminates pathways toward protecting the inherent rights of natural entities. The approach bridges theoretical discourse and practical implementation, demonstrating how recognizing nature's rights represents a fundamental transformation in the relationship between human and nonhuman nature.

Ecem Çoban Bilici graduated from Istanbul University Law Faculty (2016) and earned an LL.M. degree from Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona (2018). She completed her PhD at Istanbul University (2024). She joined Bahçeşehir University School of Law as a Research Assistant in 2020 and has been an Assistant Professor there since 2024. Her publications include the Turkish Animal Legislation Handbook and various articles on legal philosophy, animal rights, and legal theory.