UN Court Begins Historic Climate Change Hearings

The International Court of Justice is examining nations' legal responsibilities for combating climate change and aiding vulnerable countries.

• The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has commenced hearings involving over 100 countries to address the legal obligations of states to mitigate climate change and its impacts.
• The case, spearheaded by Vanuatu and other Pacific island nations, seeks clarity on the legal consequences for countries contributing to climate harm through greenhouse gas emissions.
• The ICJ's advisory opinion, expected in 2025, will not be legally binding but could influence future climate litigation and international policies.
• The hearings follow widespread criticism of the COP29 climate finance agreement, which pledged $300 billion annually by 2035, far below the $1 trillion demanded by developing nations.
• Key arguments include the assertion that climate change violates human rights and the call for reparations from major polluting nations for damages caused to vulnerable states.

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