The International Court of Justice (ICJ) wrapped up its largest-ever climate change hearings, which took place from December 2 to 13, 2024 in Hague.
This unprecedented case involved representatives from 96 countries and 11 international organizations, all arguing about the legal obligations of major greenhouse gas-emitting nations in addressing climate change and the frameworks that could hold them accountable for the damage caused.
Leading the charge was Vanuatu, a small island nation facing existential threats from rising sea levels. Vanuatu’s Attorney General, Arnold Kiel Loughman, emphasized the collective determination of countries from the Global South to uphold international law in the context of climate change.
The case highlighted testimonies from vulnerable nations, including Tuvalu and Zambia, which articulated the severe impacts of climate change on their economies and livelihoods.
Tuvalu’s representatives poignantly stated that their country is expected to be the first completely submerged due to climate-related sea-level rise, underscoring the urgency of their plight.
The hearings were initiated following a March 2023 resolution by the United Nations General Assembly, which requested an advisory opinion from the ICJ on states’ obligations regarding climate change. This marked a significant shift towards judicial avenues for climate action, reflecting frustration over stagnation in UN climate negotiations. The ICJ is now tasked with determining what legal responsibilities nations have under international law to mitigate climate change and what consequences they face for failing to act.
While the court’s advisory opinion, expected in early 2025, will not be legally binding, it holds substantial political and legal significance. It could clarify states’ obligations under various international laws and potentially reshape global climate governance. As nations await the court’s ruling, advocates hope it will lead to stronger accountability measures for major polluters and provide a framework for protecting future generations against the escalating climate crisis.
This landmark case not only highlights the voices of those most affected by climate change but also sets a precedent for future legal actions aimed at holding countries accountable for their environmental responsibilities.
This timeline outlines key events surrounding this landmark case, which is being described as the largest in the court’s history.
Timeline of Events
- December 1, 2024: The ICJ announces the opening of hearings on December 2, focusing on what countries are legally required to do to combat climate change. This case arises from a request by the United Nations General Assembly, driven by advocacy from vulnerable island nations concerned about rising sea levels and extreme weather events.
- December 2, 2024: Hearings commence in The Hague, with representatives from 99 countries and 12 international organizations participating. The hearings are expected to last for two weeks, during which various nations will present their arguments regarding legal obligations under international law concerning climate change.
- December 6, 2024: The first week of hearings concludes, with significant testimonies highlighting the urgency of the climate crisis. Participants include nations like Vanuatu, which has been a vocal advocate for international legal action against climate change.
- December 13, 2024: The hearings wrap up after two weeks of presentations. A total of 96 countries and 11 international organizations contributed to the discussions. The court posed questions to participants, who must respond by the end of the year. A ruling is anticipated late in 2025, as the court typically takes about six months to issue opinions but may take longer due to the complexity of this case.