UN Court Opens Path for Climate Change Lawsuits

UN Court Opens Path for Climate Change Lawsuits
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In a significant move, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has issued a legal opinion allowing countries to sue others over climate change, including for historical greenhouse gas emissions. While non-binding, the ruling is expected to have far-reaching legal and political implications, particularly for vulnerable nations frustrated by slow global action.

Initiated by Pacific Island students in 2019, the case marks the first time the ICJ addressed climate responsibility. The court emphasized that failure to pursue ambitious climate plans could breach the 2015 Paris Agreement. It also noted that broader international environmental law obliges all states — even non-signatories — to protect the climate.

Legal experts say this could open the door to compensation claims for damage caused by climate-related events. Although determining liability may be complex, the decision affirms that affected nations can seek remedies. Climate campaigners hailed the verdict as a major legal milestone.