Countries can sue over climate change, UN court rules
A landmark decision has been reached by a top UN court that allows countries to sue one another over climate change. This includes over historic emissions of greenhouse gases. The Judge at the International Court of Justice in the Hague, Netherlands, said that unravelling exactly who is responsible for part of climate change would not be easy.
The non-binding ruling, experts say, could have a wide range of consequences. For countries that are vulnerable to climate change, they welcome the decision, coming to the court frustrated at the lack of progress in tackling climate change.
The case was thanks to a group of young law students from low-lying Pacific islands at the forefront of climate change. The law students thought of it in 2019.
“I’m lost for words, one of the students, Siosiua Veikune from Tonga, said. “This is so exciting. There’s a ton of emotions rushing through us. This is a win we take proudly back home to our communities.”
“Tonight I’ll sleep easier,” said Flora Vano, from the Pacific Island Vanuatu. “The ICJ has recognised what we have lived through – our suffering, our resilience and our right to our future. This is a victory not just for us but for every frontline community fighting to be heard.” Vanuatu is considered one of the countries that will be most affected by rising emissions.
Campaigners and climate lawyers hope that the decision will open the door for compensation from countries that are most responsible for climate change and have historically burned the most fossil fuels.
Stay tuned to EyeOnLondon for the latest news and expert opinions.
Follow us on:
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!
We value your thoughts! Share your feedback and help us make EyeOnLondon even better!
