The International Court of Justice (ICJ), the United Nations' highest court, has issued a historic advisory opinion stating that countries are legally obligated under international law to address climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The ruling affirms that failing to act on climate change can be considered an 'internationally wrongful act,' and opens the door for nations, especially those most affected, to sue major polluters for damages and seek reparations. The decision was driven by years of advocacy from activists and small island nations, particularly in the Pacific, who argued that climate inaction threatens their survival.
The court emphasized that all states, regardless of their participation in the Paris Agreement, must act with due diligence to prevent global warming from exceeding 1.5°C. This landmark opinion is expected to influence future climate litigation, increase accountability for wealthy and high-emitting countries, and accelerate global climate action.
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