ICJ reviews climate change legal responsibilities in landmark case led by Vanuatu

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is reviewing arguments from over 100 countries regarding legal responsibility for climate change. This follows two weeks of hearings led by Vanuatu and other Pacific island nations, who argue that climate change threatens their existence. The ICJ judges will consider what obligations countries have under international law to protect the climate and the consequences for those that fail to act. A minority of major fossil fuel-producing nations argued against legal liability during the hearings. This case follows a 2023 UN vote supporting Vanuatu's call for the ICJ to clarify nations' legal duties regarding climate change. The hearings reflect growing frustration with the slow progress in international climate negotiations.