Harj Narulla to Present Climate Change Arguments at International Court of Justice
Harj Narulla will argue on behalf of the Solomon Islands at the ICJ regarding states’ obligations related to climate change, during historic advisory proceedings running from December 2-13, 2023. The ICJ aims to address key legal questions about the responsibilities of states to protect the climate system and the consequences of environmental harm.
Harj Narulla is scheduled to deliver oral arguments on behalf of the Solomon Islands before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) this week, participating in a landmark advisory opinion process concerning climate change. Between December 2 and December 13, the ICJ will entertain submissions from 98 states and 12 intergovernmental organizations regarding the obligations of states in relation to climate change, marking this as the most significant proceedings in the Court’s history.
This advisory opinion follows a unanimous request from the UN General Assembly on March 29, 2023, under resolution 77/276, prompting the Court to examine two pivotal questions. Firstly, it will assess the obligations of states under international law to safeguard the climate system from anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions, ensuring the protection of the environment for both current and future generations. Secondly, the Court will evaluate the legal ramifications for states that contribute to significant environmental damage through their actions or negligence.
This crucial case aligns with ongoing advisory proceedings concerning climate change at both the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea and the Inter-American Court of Human Rights. The ICJ is anticipated to provide authoritative interpretations of the legal principles emerging from these concurrent proceedings. Mr. Narulla has been instructed in all related cases and previously attended hearings in Barbados and Brazil earlier this year, relating to the Inter-American proceedings.
Mr. Narulla is set to present the Solomon Islands’ arguments alongside Attorney General John Muria on Thursday, December 5, at 4:00 PM CET, an event that will be livestreamed on the United Nations’ official website. His work is supported by the Attorney General’s Office and the Pro Bono team at DLA Piper, with his insights on the case attracting media attention and public discourse.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) serves as the primary judicial arm of the United Nations, tasked with settling disputes between states and providing advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by UN bodies. In recent years, climate change has emerged as a pressing global issue, prompting multiple legal initiatives aimed at clarifying states’ responsibilities under international law. The landmark proceedings initiated in this context signify a growing recognition of the legal dimensions of climate change and the necessity for global accountability. The involvement of numerous states and international organizations underscores the collaborative efforts to address this existential challenge.
In conclusion, Harj Narulla’s presentation before the ICJ represents a significant moment in the evolving dialogue surrounding the legal obligations of states concerning climate change. The Court’s forthcoming advisory opinion holds the potential to clarify international law principles and shape future policies. With extensive participation from various nations and organizations, this case highlights the urgent need for collective action to mitigate climate change impacts for present and future generations.
Original Source: www.doughtystreet.co.uk
