The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has issued an advisory opinion stating that all nations must tackle climate change and those that do not act could be obliged to pay reparations for the harm caused to the environment. The ruling was hailed as a “game-changing” moment by activists, who say it opens the door for climate justice and accountability.
The ICJ’s decision was the result of years of efforts by small island nations and activists, including Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change. The court was asked its opinion on two questions: What is the obligation of a country to act against climate change? And what legal consequences should a country face for contributing to climate change that results in harm to the environment?
The ICJ found that climate change is a human rights issue and that nations responsible for emitting greenhouse gases could be required to pay reparations to victims harmed by climate change. The court stated that the human right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment is inherent in the enjoyment of other human rights.
However, not everyone is optimistic about the ICJ’s ability to implement climate justice. University of Bristol law professor Folúkẹ́ Adébísí argued that the ICJ was founded on an international legal structure that is already unequal and that it does not have the power to enforce its decisions.
The ruling has been welcomed by climate activists around the world, who say it will have a profound impact in other court cases, government policies, and future climate negotiations. However, some experts are skeptical of the ICJ’s ability to bring about significant change.
Despite the challenges, the ICJ’s decision is seen as a major victory for climate justice and accountability. The ICJ’s advisory opinion provides a clear message to nations like the United States, which were among the most responsible for greenhouse gas emissions, that they cannot persist with business as usual.
Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/uns-top-court-delivered-a-landmark-opinion-on-climate-justice-whats-next