UN vote called ‘epic’ win for climate justice

STORY: “Today we have witnessed a win for climate justice of epic proportions.”

That was Vanuatu Prime Minister Ishmael Kalsakau on Wednesday (March 29) after the United Nations General Assembly voted to ask the world’s top court for an advisory opinion on national climate obligations.

The legal opinion could drive countries to take stronger measures... and clarify international law.

“Importantly, the court will tell us what the legal consequences are for states that disregard these laws and cause climate and environmental harm.”

Countries will submit input over the next year... and it could take the court around 18 months to issue an advisory opinion.

The Republic of Vanuatu was the driving force behind the four-year campaign, leading a core group of 18 countries ranging from Costa Rica to Germany.

The United States did not support the resolution.

A spokesperson for U.S. President Joe Biden’s administration said “diplomacy – not an international judicial process – is the most effective path forward."

Vulnerable countries like Bangladesh are applauding the move.

The country’s foreign secretary said the resolution’s passage was a ‘defining moment’ that could help bridge the gap between promised climate financing and what is being delivered.

“We hope this resolution and the consequent advisory opinion will provide a better understanding of the legal implications of climate change under international law and the rights of present and future generations to be protected from climate change.”

The resulting advisory opinion could be a vital input to the burgeoning climate-driven lawsuits around the world.

There are upwards of 2,000 cases pending worldwide.

Other international courts and tribunals are also being asked to clarify and define the law around climate obligations, including the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea.