Paper: GS – II, Subject: International Relations, Topic: International Institutions, Issue: The International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Context:
The International Court of Justice (ICJ), the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, delivered a historic advisory opinion on climate change that could significantly influence future climate litigation and international environmental law.
Key Takeaways:
Key Aspects of the International Court of Justice’s Ruling:
The ICJ’s advisory opinion, delivered in response to a UN General Assembly resolution, addresses two central questions:
- Obligations of Countries: What are the obligations of countries under international law to protect the climate system?
- Legal Consequences: What are the legal consequences for countries that do not fulfill these obligations?

About the International Court of Justice (ICJ): Also known as the World Court, the ICJ was established in June 1945 by the UN Charter and began its operations in April 1946. It is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations but independent of UN Secretariat.Headquarters: The Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands. Of the 6 principal UN organs, ICJ is the only UN body not located in New York. Official languages of ICJ: English and French. The member states of the UN are automatic parties to the Court. Non-UN member states can also become parties to the ICJ by ratifying the ICJ Statute. States have no permanent representatives accredited to the court. They communicate with the Registrar through their Minister for Foreign Affairs or ambassador accredited to the Netherlands. |
Significance and challenges of the International Court of Justice’s Climate Change Ruling:

Conclusion:
The ICJ’s climate ruling represents a significant development in the global fight against climate change. By clarifying countries’ legal obligations and emphasizing the potential consequences of inaction, the ruling has the potential to galvanize international climate action, increase accountability, and provide a stronger legal basis for addressing climate-related disputes.
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