Global Voices at the ICJ: Unpacking State Responsibilities in the Climate Crisis

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) concluded its advisory proceedings concerning the responsibilities of States in the context of climate change. These hearings marked a significant moment in international law, with an unprecedented level of engagement from both States and international organizations. The Court received a record 91 initial written submissions, followed by 62 additional comments submitted in the subsequent phase, during which participants could respond to each other’s positions.

In response to these developments, a new briefing by the Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL), Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change, and World’s Youth for Climate Justice (WYCJ) offers an overview of the legal arguments presented throughout the process. The briefing compiles excerpts from various submissions to illustrate the range of perspectives on the legal questions under consideration by the Court.

The document highlights areas of agreement and divergence among the participants, particularly with regard to how international legal obligations may apply in the context of climate change. It aims to provide a clearer understanding of the legal reasoning used by different States and organizations, as well as how these arguments may shape future interpretations of international environmental law.

The goal of the briefing is to inform a wider audience about the scope of the legal debate and contribute to ongoing discussions about the role of international law in addressing climate-related challenges.