ICJ’s Groundbreaking Ruling: Healthy Environment Recognized as a Fundamental Human Right

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) made a significant ruling recently: it recognized a clean and sustainable environment as a human right. This advisory opinion means that countries not taking action against greenhouse gas emissions may be violating international law, as reported by DW on July 23.

This ruling could potentially hold large corporations accountable for their role in climate damage. According to bne IntelliNews, just 111 major fossil fuel companies are linked to about $28 trillion in climate-related economic damages, with the top ten responsible for half of that. That’s a staggering amount.

ICJ President Yuji Iwasawa pointed out that human activities are causing greenhouse gas emissions, which have effects that cross borders. Climate change poses an “urgent and existential threat,” he warned. This means that governments now have a legal responsibility to work together to prevent environmental harm and set ambitious national climate targets.

The ruling came after Vanuatu, a Pacific Island nation, sought clarity on what obligations countries have to combat climate change. Supported by many developing countries, this case marks a historic moment in global climate advocacy.

Mary Robinson, former UN high commissioner for human rights, called it “a powerful tool to protect people from climate change impacts.” Vanuatu’s Climate Change Minister, Ralph Regenvanu, described it as a “milestone for climate action,” highlighting its importance in addressing what is arguably the greatest threat to humanity today.

Even though the opinion isn’t legally binding, it carries significant moral weight. Joana Setzer from the Grantham Research Institute at the London School of Economics referred to it as a “turning point” for climate litigation, suggesting it will guide domestic courts and activists in future cases.

As nations prepare for climate negotiations at the COP30 summit in Brazil this November, experts believe this ruling could provide a “clear legal blueprint” for accountability. Joie Chowdhury, a senior attorney at the Center for International Environmental Law, emphasized that this case signals a shift away from empty promises regarding climate action.

In 2021, a survey conducted by the Pew Research Center showed that a significant majority of people worldwide see climate change as a pressing issue. This growing awareness could amplify the impact of the ICJ ruling, motivating governments and businesses to take more meaningful action. The world is watching closely.

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