The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has issued a landmark advisory opinion affirming that nations have legal obligations under international law to combat climate change and protect both current and future generations. The court recognized climate change as an "urgent and existential threat" and emphasized the duty of states to cooperate in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
In its unanimous decision, the ICJ stated that a "clean, healthy, and sustainable environment" is a fundamental human right. The court highlighted that failure to take appropriate action to protect the climate system may constitute an internationally wrongful act, potentially leading to legal consequences such as reparations or compensation for affected nations.
The ruling underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing climate change. It specifies that countries are responsible for regulating emissions from private actors within their jurisdiction, including fossil fuel companies. The court also noted that industrialized nations, due to their greater historical responsibility for emissions, have a heightened duty to lead in mitigating climate change.
While the ICJ's advisory opinion is non-binding, it carries significant legal and political weight. The decision is expected to influence future climate litigation and policy-making, reinforcing the global movement toward climate accountability and justice.