Exploring the Human Rights Impact of Subsidy Removal: Studies from Renewable Energy Transition in Nigeria and China

The objective of this study is to examine the human rights implications of subsidyremoval for renewable energy promotion, gleaning experience from Nigeria and China.The research aims to evaluate how energy policy reforms can balance the advancementof renewable energy with the protection of human rights, ensuring that disadvantagedand marginalised populations are not disproportionately affected. This research is rootedin the global shift towards sustainable energy sources as a response to climate change.This transition often involves removing or phasing out subsidies for fossil fuels, whichcan have ugly socio-economic impacts. Nigeria and China, as developing economieswith renewable energy ambitions, present valuable studies for assessing these dynamics.The research methodology adopted for this study is doctrinal, which involves an analysisof relevant legal frameworks governing subsidy primarily in China and Nigeria,complemented by a comparative analysis intended to assess the impact of removal ofsubsidy and its socio-economic effect in both countries. Results indicate that while bothNigeria and China have made giant strides in promoting renewable energy, challengesremain in ensuring that these policies do not undermine human rights of their citizens.The findings command the urgent need for transparent decision-making processes, legalreforms to protect vulnerable populations, and international cooperation to share bestpractices and expert guidance. In essence, the study defines the importance of integratinghuman rights considerations into energy policy frameworks. By implementing relevantlegal reforms, and ensuring adherence to international human rights norms, countriescan achieve a more equitable balance between renewable energy advancement andhuman rights protection.