In a landmark advisory opinion delivered on July 23, 2025, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) declared that all nations have a legal obligation to address climate change and protect present and future generations. This decision, prompted by a United Nations General Assembly resolution initiated by Vanuatu, signifies a critical development in international environmental law, highlighting the urgent and existential threat posed by the climate crisis.
The Court's comprehensive ruling establishes climate change not only as an environmental issue but as a fundamental human rights concern. The ICJ affirmed that a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment is a prerequisite for the enjoyment of numerous human rights, including the rights to life and health. This perspective aligns with previous statements from international bodies, such as the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, which has also recognized the intrinsic link between environmental protection and human well-being.
Central to the ICJ's opinion is the assertion that states have a duty of due diligence to prevent significant harm to the climate system. This includes regulating the activities of both public and private entities, particularly concerning greenhouse gas emissions. The Court emphasized that failures to act, such as continuing fossil fuel production, granting exploration licenses, or providing subsidies, can constitute an internationally wrongful act, potentially leading to legal consequences and reparations for injured states. Vanuatu's Minister of Climate Change, Ralph Regenvanu, hailed the decision as a "landmark milestone for climate action" and a crucial step towards global climate justice.
While advisory and not strictly binding, the ruling carries substantial legal and moral weight, expected to influence national courts and international climate negotiations. It reinforces the 1.5°C temperature goal of the Paris Agreement as a legally binding benchmark. The broad support for the initiative, with over 130 countries backing the call for the ICJ's opinion, underscores a growing global consensus on the imperative for climate action and a shared understanding of the interconnectedness of global well-being and environmental stewardship.
The ICJ's opinion also clarifies that states have a duty to cooperate in addressing climate change, with developed nations expected to lead and provide financial assistance to developing countries. This collaborative approach is vital for fostering a unified response to a challenge that transcends national borders. The decision is anticipated to empower vulnerable nations and youth-led movements, providing a stronger legal foundation for demanding accountability and more ambitious climate policies worldwide.