Starting in December, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) will hold public hearings on an advisory opinion case that could become a reference point in defining countries’ legal obligations to fight climate change. In 2023, the United Nations General Assembly asked the ICJ for a formal opinion on whether large states that contribute to greenhouse-gas emissions may be liable for damages caused to small island nations. Although not binding under international law, the advisory opinion on climate change will likely be cited in climate lawsuits around the world. In a statement issued on 16 August, the Court said 62 nations including Australia, Brazil, the European Union, Grenada, Japan, Micronesia, the Philippines, Seychelles, United Kingdom, United States and Vanuatu had filed written comments by an Aug. 15 deadline.
