The United Nations’ highest court, the International Court of Justice (ICJ), has delivered a landmark opinion stating that wealthy nations have a legal obligation to take bold action to address the “existential threat” of climate change. The court’s ruling emphasizes that countries must comply with their international commitments to curb pollution and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Key Findings
– Stringent Obligations: The ICJ stated that countries have “stringent obligations” under climate treaties, including the Paris Agreement, to maintain standards that meet the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
– Reparations for Climate Damages: The court noted that failure to comply with these obligations could result in “full reparations to injured states in the form of restitution, compensation, and satisfaction”.
– Human Right to a Clean Environment: The ICJ affirmed that a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment is essential for human rights, emphasizing the need for countries to protect the climate system.
Implications
The ruling, while non-binding, carries significant legal and political weight, potentially influencing future climate cases and actions. Climate activists and small island states hailed the opinion as a “legal steppingstone” to hold major polluters accountable.
Reaction
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres praised the opinion, stating it affirms the Paris climate agreement goal as the basis for all climate policies. Environmental groups, including Greenpeace and Oxfam, welcomed the ruling, emphasizing the need for countries to reduce emissions faster and phase out fossil fuels.