The International Court of Justice (ICJ) began pivotal hearings on Monday to establish a legal framework for nations to combat climate change, with Vanuatu’s representative, Ralph Regenvanu, calling it a defining moment for humanity. “The outcome of this case will echo across generations, shaping the future of nations like mine and the planet itself,” he stated before the 15-judge panel in The Hague’s Peace Palace.
Over 100 countries and organizations will participate in the proceedings, setting a record for ICJ cases. Activists hope the court’s non-binding advisory opinion will influence global legal systems and climate policies, while critics warn it may have limited impact and could take years to finalize.
Protesters outside the Peace Palace displayed banners reading, “Biggest problem to the highest court” and “Fund our future, climate finance now.” Siosiua Veikune, a youth climate advocate from Tonga, described the hearings as vital for the climate justice movement.
The UN General Assembly had referred two critical questions to the ICJ: What are states’ legal obligations to prevent harm from greenhouse gas emissions, and what are the legal consequences if these obligations are breached?
Joie Chowdhury, an environmental law expert, predicts the ICJ will outline a broad legal framework rather than specific rulings. The opinion, expected in 2025, could guide future climate litigation globally.
The case follows a contentious COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan, where nations failed to reach consensus on meeting the Paris Agreement’s target of limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Leading polluters like China, the US, and India are among the countries presenting arguments at the ICJ.
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