The world is closely watching this week as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) prepares to deliver its advisory opinion on a historic case related to climate justice.

This marks the first time the ICJ — the highest legal body of the United Nations — is offering legal advice on the responsibilities of states concerning climate change and its impacts.

The case was initiated by a group of Pacific law students who launched a grassroots campaign to seek legal clarity on the obligations of major polluting countries. Their efforts made history by bringing the issue to the world’s highest court, with Vanuatu playing a key role in leading the charge.

The advisory opinion seeks to clarify the legal responsibility of nations that have contributed significantly to climate change through greenhouse gas emissions — particularly in relation to the harm caused to vulnerable nations like small island states.

The outcome of the ICJ’s opinion could influence future climate policies and strengthen legal tools to hold big polluters accountable.