In a historic ruling, the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the United Nations' highest court, declared that countries are legally obligated under international law to take strong action against climate change.
The court found that failing to curb greenhouse gas emissions and protect the environment could be considered an 'internationally wrongful act,' opening the door for countries to be sued and potentially ordered to pay reparations for climate-related damages. The opinion, which is advisory but highly influential, was driven by years of advocacy from small island nations and youth activists, especially from the Pacific. The ruling emphasizes that all nations, including wealthy and high-emitting countries, must act with due diligence to prevent global warming from exceeding 1.5°C and that a healthy environment is a human right.
This decision is expected to embolden climate litigation worldwide and increase pressure on governments and fossil fuel industries to accelerate climate action.
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