Vanuatu has urged the International Court of Justice to recognize the legal obligations of countries to combat climate change, emphasizing that the harms inflicted threaten their existence. Other nations, including Saudi Arabia and Germany, also addressed the court, discussing the adequacy of existing climate treaties. The proceedings are significant for future climate-related litigation, with the ICJ’s opinion expected in 2025.
On Monday, Vanuatu urged the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to acknowledge the harms caused by climate change in its legal judgments regarding countries’ obligations to combat global warming. As one of the small island states leading this initiative, Vanuatu was the first to express its views among over 100 other nations and organizations participating in the two-week proceedings. Ralph Regenvanu, Vanuatu’s special envoy for climate change, emphasized that the crisis threatens their existence and requires a legal response rather than a political one.
Regenvanu called for recognition from the court that the actions causing significant harm are unlawful and must be stopped, with reparations needed for the damages already inflicted. These hearings follow the COP29 summit, criticized by developing nations for its insufficient outcome, where wealthier countries pledged to deliver $300 billion annually in climate finance by 2035 to support poorer nations in addressing climate challenges.
Although advisory opinions from the ICJ are not binding, they hold substantial legal and political influence. Experts anticipate that the court’s eventual opinions on climate change could be referenced in various climate-related lawsuits across continents, including Europe and Latin America. Cynthia Houniuhi, a youth climate activist from the Solomon Islands, stressed the uncertainty of the future for young people in small island nations, which is dictated by a few high-emission countries.
Saudi Arabia also presented its case during the hearings, advising the court to maintain caution in its advisory opinion. The Saudi government contended that existing UN treaties on climate change adequately address the responsibilities of states, and any new obligations could undermine these agreements’ framework. Notably, Saudi Arabia is the largest exporter of crude oil, a major factor in climate change.
Germany echoed this sentiment, asserting that the Paris Agreement already defines states’ obligations concerning climate change. In addition to small island nations and various Western and developing countries, the hearings will include statements from significant GHG emitters such as the United States and China, along with input from the oil-producing group OPEC. The hearings will continue through December 13, and the court’s opinion is anticipated in 2025.
Vanuatu’s call for legal recognition of climate change harms highlights the urgent need for global responsibility. As the ICJ hears arguments from various nations, the outcome could influence future climate litigation and policy. The engagement from both small island states and major GHG emitters illustrates the complex dynamics at play. Ultimately, the precedent set by the court could shape the legal landscape of climate change mitigation efforts.
Original Source: bluewaterhealthyliving.com
