Vanuatu Leads Landmark Climate Change Hearing at the ICJ

The International Court of Justice hears arguments on member states' legal obligations to combat climate change, as Vanuatu advocates for accountability.

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Overview

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

Starting a pivotal two-week session, the ICJ is set to hear from over 100 countries regarding their obligations to fight climate change. Vanuatu has urged recognition of legal responsibility for harm caused by emissions, following a disappointing COP29 climate finance agreement. As vulnerable nations advocate for accountability against major polluters, notably the US and China, the resulting advisory opinion could influence future climate litigation and global policies despite its non-binding nature.

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