Why tiny Vanuatu has gone to the ICJ demanding climate justice for all vulnerable nations

In what is described as “a pivotal moment for climate justice” by activists, the International Court of Justice from December 2-13 will hear oral testimonies of the hundreds of people from all over the world as it considers two fundamental questions: what obligations do states have under international law to protect the climate system and what legal consequences should they face if they cause significant harm through their actions or inactions.

This is the largest case ever before the International Court of Justice, with record numbers of submitted written statements and comments and 110 states and intergovernmental organisations scheduled to make oral presentations.

The proceedings at the Peace Palace in The Hague had been initiated by the request from the Pacific island of Vanuatu to the United Nations General Assembly for an advisory opinion on the “Obligation of States” in respect to climate change.

Vanuatu, which faces several extreme climate events year after year, contributes only 0.02% of global greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. Yet like other small nations and Pacific island states, it suffers disproportionately from climate impacts.

“This case addresses the ongoing violation of fundamental legal norms, including human rights, through the destruction of Earth’s climate system,” said Margaretha Wewerinke-Singh, the legal counsel...

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