Overview

• The hearings, initiated by a UN General Assembly request, mark the first time the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is addressing legal questions related to climate change.
• The case, involving 99 participating countries, seeks clarity on states' legal responsibilities to mitigate emissions and address climate-related harm under international law.
• Small island nations like Vanuatu and Fiji argue that major polluters should reduce emissions and provide financial reparations, citing existential threats from rising sea levels.
• Wealthy nations, including the United States and Russia, oppose expanded legal obligations, advocating reliance on the Paris Agreement rather than broader international legal principles.
• The ICJ's advisory opinion, expected next year, though non-binding, could influence future domestic and international legal actions on climate accountability.