ICJ says countries have obligations to take steps on climate change
The ICJ issued its advisory opinion on the obligations of states in respect to climate change on Wednesday in The Hague.
ICJ President Iwasawa Yuji said, "The consequences of climate change are severe and far-reaching," adding, "These consequences underscore the urgent and existential threat posed by climate change."
The court also said countries are required to protect the environment in order to ensure the enjoyment of human rights.
The court stressed that a complete solution to this problem "requires the contribution of all fields of human knowledge." It expressed hope that its conclusions will help inform and guide social and political action to address the ongoing climate crisis.
The ICJ provided the non-binding advisory opinion in response to a United Nations General Assembly resolution adopted in 2023.
This comes as the administration of US President Donald Trump has taken a reluctant stance on addressing climate change.
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