Vanuatu, a small island nation in the Pacific, took a bold step in global climate advocacy by initiating a legal campaign to bring the issue of climate change before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). This move was sparked by a group of law students from the University of the South Pacific in Fiji, who formed the Pacific Island Students Fighting Climate Change (PISFCC). Recognizing the existential threat climate change poses to vulnerable nations like theirs, Vanuatu built a coalition of similarly affected countries, leading to the United Nations General Assembly referring key legal questions to the International Court of Justice for an advisory opinion.
On 23 July 2025, the International Court of Justice delivered a historic advisory opinion affirming that all nations have legally binding obligations to mitigate climate change under international law. The Court clarified that obligations under treaties like the Paris Agreement, the Kyoto Protocol, and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) require states to act diligently, co-operate with one another, and prepare progressive contributions to limit global warming. Furthermore, states are expected to support adaptation and share technology and finance in good faith, especially to assist the most vulnerable nations.
Beyond treaty obligations, the Court acknowledged that customary international law and human rights law also demand climate action. States must act with due diligence to prevent environmental harm, particularly emissions from within their own territories. This includes ongoing cooperation between nations to avoid transboundary damage to the climate and natural systems. The opinion emphasized that protecting the climate is not only an environmental obligation but also a matter of safeguarding fundamental human rights for present and future generations.
The International Court of Justice further stated that countries failing to meet their obligations can be held accountable for wrongful acts. This could result in legal consequences such as the requirement to stop harmful practices, guarantee non-repetition, and provide reparations to affected nations. Vanuatu's initiative, supported by the overwhelming participation of nearly 100 countries and multiple organizations, marks a major step in clarifying the legal responsibilities of states in combating climate change and may pave the way for increased accountability and global climate justice.
Why is it significant that a small island nation like Vanuatu led the push for global climate accountability at the ICJ? What does this reveal about the power of vulnerable nations and grassroots activism?
How does the involvement of university students (PISFCC) challenge or inspire your view of youth leadership in climate justice? What role can students play in shaping international law and policy?
What does the ICJ ruling suggest about the moral and legal responsibilities of wealthier nations in addressing climate change? How should these responsibilities be lived out in practice?
In what ways can international law support the protection of human rights in the context of climate change? How are environmental issues connected to justice and dignity for all people?
How can countries be held accountable for failing to act on climate obligations without causing further global division or inequality? What mechanisms are available or needed to ensure fair enforcement?
Do you think legal measures alone are enough to bring about meaningful environmental change? What else is required—politically, culturally, and spiritually—for global climate justice?
How can you contribute, in your own context, to climate justice and the protection of vulnerable communities? What changes—small or large—can you make in your daily life to align with this mission?
Discuss
Song - Aux arbres citoyens
Final Prayer
Creator of Heaven and Earth, we thank You for the courage of Vanuatu and all nations and people who stand as guardians of creation. We give thanks for the vision of the young leaders who inspired this global call for justice, and for the International Court of Justice’s affirmation that protecting the climate is a sacred duty for the sake of all people, present and future. Strengthen the resolve of every nation to act with wisdom, cooperation, and compassion, especially for the most vulnerable. May we work together to heal the earth, safeguard human dignity, and honor the gift of creation You have entrusted to our care. Amen.
(Audio Available)
