International Court of Justice to present landmark climate ruling

International Court of Justice to present landmark climate ruling
——————————
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is set to deliver a landmark advisory opinion on Wednesday addressing countries’ legal obligations to prevent climate change and the consequences for major polluters whose emissions have harmed the planet, Arab News reported. This ruling, urged by the Pacific island nation of Vanuatu, is considered the most significant recent development in international climate law, with potential wide-reaching effects on states and corporations worldwide.

The UN requested the ICJ to clarify two key questions: the extent of states’ duties under international law to protect the climate from greenhouse gas emissions, and the legal consequences for those causing significant environmental harm. The latter question highlights the plight of vulnerable countries facing severe climate impacts, including rising sea levels and extreme weather, particularly small island nations.

Over 100 oral submissions were made during December hearings at the ICJ’s Peace Palace, marking the largest ever, with many small states participating for the first time. Advocates hope the ruling will unify existing laws, strengthen climate litigation, and inspire more ambitious national policies. Vishal Prasad of Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change called it “the compass the world needs to course correct.”

However, some critics note the advisory opinion is non-binding and major polluters could ignore it. Representatives from the US and India argued existing frameworks like the UNFCCC suffice and warned against creating new obligations. Meanwhile, vulnerable nations emphasize the urgent need for stronger legal clarity and justice in the face of climate crisis impacts.