Climate News to Watch
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is hearing a case on climate change brought by Vanuatu, a small island nation in the South Pacific. The case asks the ICJ to clarify what countries are legally obligated to do to protect the environment and limit climate change.
- In 2021, a group of law students from the Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change lobbied the government of Vanuatu.
- Vanuatu announced that it would seek an advisory opinion from the ICJ.
- The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution supporting Vanuatu’s request.
What are they asking ICJ to do?
- Provide an advisory opinion on what are the legal obligations of the countries to protect the environment and limit climate change
- Clarify the obligations of countries, especially small island developing states that are vulnerable to climate change
What are the implications of the case?
- The ICJ’s opinion will shape international climate law and governance
- Many consider this case as awatershed moment in the global fight for climate justice
What’s Next?
- Public hearings have begun in December 2024
- The ICJ will most likely, issue its advisory opinion in 2025
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