Papua New Guinea will participate for the first time in the International Court of Justice to address climate change impacts and seek compensation and climate finance. Minister Pila Niningi indicated that PNG’s engagement comes after a UNGA request for an advisory opinion on the legal obligations of states regarding climate issues, highlighting the challenges faced by Pacific nations. Prime Minister James Marape also emphasized the need for global partnerships to preserve PNG’s critical biodiversity amid climate crises.
Papua New Guinea (PNG) is set to participate for the first time in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to address the significant impacts of climate change and potentially seek compensation and access to climate finance. This initiative was announced by Justice and Attorney-General Minister Pila Niningi, who stated that PNG has registered its intention to present an oral statement regarding the legal obligations of states concerning climate change, following a request by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) for an advisory opinion from the ICJ on the matter. This development is seen as a reaffirmation of PNG’s ongoing commitment to addressing environmental degradation and climate change challenges. Minister Niningi elaborated that his ministry would lead a delegation to the Netherlands on December 2, comprising Justice and Attorney-General Secretary Dr. Eric Kwa, Acting Solicitor General E’ava Geik, Public Solicitor Leslie Mamu, and representatives from the Department of Climate Change and the Development Authority, with participation expected to last two weeks. The decision to engage with the ICJ was made during the recent 79th UNGA held in Fiji, where justice ministers and attorneys general from Pacific and Caribbean nations convened. Minister Niningi asserted that PNG’s involvement in the ICJ process underscores the urgency of the challenges faced by Pacific Island nations, which are experiencing direct consequences of climate change, such as rising sea levels and changing weather patterns. The anticipated ICJ advisory opinion is expected to clarify the legal responsibilities of states in combating climate change, thereby providing guidance on their obligations under international law, particularly in relation to human rights and environmental treaties. Prime Minister James Marape emphasized at the UNGA the critical juncture at which PNG’s vast rainforests, diverse biodiversity, marine ecosystems, and indigenous cultures now stand—facing potential preservation or irreversible loss. He stressed the importance of global partnership in maintaining the world’s remaining tropical rainforests, which are integral to the Earth’s ecological health. Further, he called for urgent action to secure fair compensation and access to climate finance for forested nations like PNG to sustainably manage their natural resources amidst global climate crises.
The initiative by Papua New Guinea to participate in the International Court of Justice marks a significant moment in the global discourse on climate change, particularly for Pacific Island nations that are among the most vulnerable to its effects. Climate change manifests in various forms, including rising sea levels and extreme weather events, threatening the livelihoods and ecological systems of these nations. The legal framework surrounding climate change is becoming increasingly pertinent, as countries seek accountability and responsibility from major polluters. PNG’s involvement in the ICJ signifies not only its commitment to environmental preservation but also its intent to influence international legal standards in combating climate change.
In summary, Papua New Guinea’s upcoming engagement with the International Court of Justice represents a pivotal step towards addressing the legal implications of climate change on a global scale. It highlights the urgent need for compensation and climate finance for Pacific Island nations severely affected by environmental changes. Through this initiative, PNG aims to assert its rights and responsibilities under international law, contributing to a broader discourse on climate justice for vulnerable nations worldwide.
Original Source: www.thenational.com.pg
