International Court Updates Hearing Schedule for Climate Change Advisory Opinion
The International Court of Justice has released an updated schedule for oral arguments on climate change obligations at the request of the United Nations General Assembly. Beginning on December 2, 2023, the Court will consider both the financial responsibilities of States and their obligations to prevent climate change. Notably, some parties have withdrawn from oral statements, altering the original schedule.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has recently released an updated schedule for oral arguments concerning its advisory opinion on the obligations of States regarding climate change. The ICJ will assess nations’ financial responsibilities linked to climate change and their preventative obligations, following a call from the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), initiated by Vanuatu. This non-binding opinion may influence the interpretation of future climate-related legal matters and guide legislative frameworks.
In response to the pressing issue of climate change, Vanuatu appealed to the UNGA on March 29, 2023, urging the ICJ to interpret the legal responsibilities of States. As part of this process, the UNGA posed two pivotal questions regarding state obligations under international law related to environmental protection and the consequences for States inflicting harm through their actions. The ICJ will consider input from member states and international entities, which will serve to enrich the proceedings leading up to the oral hearings set to begin on December 2.
The hearings conducted by the International Court of Justice on December 2 will involve over 100 stakeholders presenting their perspectives on climate change obligations. The alterations to the oral argument schedule highlight the dynamic nature of the proceedings, including the withdrawal of certain parties. This advisory opinion, while non-binding, is anticipated to significantly shape future climate agreements and responsibilities among nations.
Original Source: www.forbes.com
