World Court Declares Climate Inaction a Violation of International Law—Major Polluters Face Reparations

In a historic ruling, the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the United Nations' highest court, declared that all countries are legally obligated under international law to address climate change and curb greenhouse gas emissions. The court found that failure to act on climate change could breach international law and open the door for countries harmed by climate impacts to seek reparations from major polluters. This landmark advisory opinion, driven by a campaign led by Pacific Island nations like Vanuatu, affirms that a healthy environment is a human right and that wealthy nations must comply with their climate commitments. The ruling is expected to influence future climate litigation and increase accountability for countries that fail to meet their obligations. While the opinion is non-binding, it marks a turning point in international climate law and strengthens the fight for climate justice.