The Legal Perspective on Not Impairing the Capacity Of Future Generations to Meet their Needs in Achieving Development

Abstract

The aim of this research is to discuss the ability of future generations to achieve sustainable development without affecting their needs from a legal perspective. The research utilizes a modern approach to sustainable development which makes it more distinguished and contemporary than the traditional concept of sustainable development that proved inadequate for future generations. This new approach is called by some social scientists as the “generational gap development” or “equity among generations” or “future generations’ rights”. This research’s contribution is through the discussion of this new approach as a legal concept based on rules, regulations, and philosophical rights in support of future generations assisting them in living justice and equity. This is considered a paradigm shift as it’s hasn’t been practiced before.The main findings of this study is that the ability of future generations to meet their needs when achieving development poses a constraint on our current actions regarding the rights of people who have not yet to come. There is also a wide gap existing between the realities of the international sustainable development in general and the national constitution of law and its ability to provide the required legal protection. Finally the research provides recommendations in relation to those issues.