ICJ to deliver opinion on country responsibilities for climate harm as Vanuatu pushes for accountability

Vanuatu is marking a major moment on the world stage today as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) — the highest court in the world is ready to give its legal opinion on the responsibilities of countries when it comes to climate change.

This case, led by Vanuatu, asks the ICJ to clearly say that countries must take responsibility for the damage caused by the greenhouse gases they release into the atmosphere.

Minister of Climate Change, Hon. Ralph Regenvanu, said this step is important because many big countries are not keeping the promises they made under the 2015 Paris Agreement.

“We see many countries signed the agreement, but they are not doing what they promised. We go to COP meetings and talk, but some countries are even going backwards. So now, we ask the court to make it clear if you agree to something and don’t do it, what are the consequences?” he said.

Vanuatu wants the ICJ to clearly say that releasing harmful gases into the environment breaks international law — and that countries who don’t act should face penalties.

“The court should say that this kind of behavior is against the law,” Minister Regenvanu said. “And second, if countries break the law, there must be consequences, such as compensation. These are the two things we are asking the court to decide on.”

The case is a big step in Vanuatu’s global climate leadership and could set a powerful example for other small island nations.