THE HAGUE/SYDNEY, Monday 2 December 2024 — The historic Pacific-led campaign to address the world’s biggest problem of climate change at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is at a crucial stage today in The Hague. Nearly 100 countries, including Australia, are scheduled to present their oral submissions at the ICJ.
The significant campaign for an advisory opinion from the ICJ on the legal responsibilities of countries concerning climate change has evolved from its Pacific roots, driven by the Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change and supported by the government of Vanuatu, into the world’s largest climate justice campaign.
An impactful advisory opinion from the ICJ would offer clarification on the international legal obligations countries have in protecting their populations from climate change impacts, potentially strengthening international human rights law. Australia is set to present its arguments today at 4pm CET.
Speaking from The Hague, Shiva Gounden, Head of Pacific at Greenpeace Australia Pacific, expressed: “This inspiring campaign, led by a coalition of small island states and vulnerable countries, aims to define the legal responsibilities of nation-states in relation to climate change — showcasing Pacific leaders’ dedication to ambitious climate policy and global reform.
“The next two weeks of hearings represent the culmination of five years of collective advocacy, powerful campaigning, and global mobilization behind this influential campaign, ensuring the protection of human rights from climate devastation for current and future generations, and holding major emitters accountable.
“It is a pivotal moment that amplifies the voices of the most impacted communities globally. As we converge in The Hague, we have the opportunity to present to the Court the stories and struggles of frontline communities facing sea-level rise, food insecurity, and threats to their ways of life and sustenance. These communities demand radical action and justice.
“Together, we will make a strong statement outside to ensure that the voices of our communities resonate in the courtroom. The ICJ judges have a rare opportunity to alter the course of history — we urge them to seize this moment.”
Also speaking from The Hague, Katrina Bullock, General Counsel at Greenpeace Australia Pacific, added: “Today marks the beginning of a groundbreaking advisory opinion hearing at the International Court of Justice — a pivotal event that could reshape the global understanding of human rights amid climate change.
“Climate change transcends environmental concerns — it directly threatens fundamental human rights, including the rights to life, health, food, water, housing, culture, and self-determination.
“The Court’s opinion could be transformative, clarifying the imperative for action under international law, holding governments responsible, and setting influential precedents. This moment transcends legal discourse; it is a critical step toward safeguarding human rights in the face of climate challenges and ensuring justice aligns with our planet’s urgent needs.”
On Tuesday 3 December at 11am AEDT, Greenpeace Australia Pacific and The Australia Institute will host a joint webinar to observe Australia’s public submission to the ICJ, followed by a panel discussion with Pacific and legal experts. Event details here.
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Images for media use available here
Images of the Peaceful demonstration outside the ICJ will be available here from Monday afternoon CET (GMT +1)
For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact Kate O’Callaghan on +61 406 231 892 (CET timezone) or [email protected]
Greenpeace Australia Pacific has spokespeople on the ground in The Hague throughout the hearings and can provide interviews or commentary from a range of organizations involved in the campaign, Pacific activists, and legal experts.
