Harj Narulla will argue for the Solomon Islands at the ICJ in historic climate change advisory opinion proceedings from December 2-13. The Court will hear submissions from 98 states and 12 intergovernmental organizations regarding the legal obligations of states to protect the climate under international law, following a UN request from March 2023.
Harj Narulla will represent the Solomon Islands at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) this week, delivering oral arguments in the pivotal advisory opinion proceedings concerning climate change. From December 2 to 13, the Court will evaluate submissions from a record number of 98 states and 12 intergovernmental organizations concerning the legal obligations of states regarding climate change. This unprecedented session highlights the global urgency to address climate-related legal issues.
The ICJ proceedings follow a unanimous request made by the United Nations General Assembly on March 29, 2023, under resolution 77/276. The Court will address two fundamental questions: firstly, the obligations of states under international law to safeguard the climate system and the environment from the anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse gases, ensuring protection for both current and future generations; and secondly, the legal repercussions for states whose actions or negligence have resulted in significant harm to the climate and environmental systems.
This case is occurring amidst additional advisory proceedings on climate change before the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea and the Inter-American Court of Human Rights. The ICJ’s forthcoming interpretation is anticipated to provide a significant legal framework that will influence global environmental governance. Mr. Narulla has participated in preliminary hearings in Barbados and Brazil earlier this year for the Inter-American proceedings.
On Thursday, December 5, at 4:00 PM CET, Mr. Narulla will present the Solomon Islands’ position in a livestreamed event available on the United Nations website. He is representing the Solomon Islands alongside Attorney General John Muria, under the guidance of the Attorney General’s Office and DLA Piper’s Pro Bono team. Mr. Narulla’s insights regarding these proceedings have been disseminated in various media outlets, attesting to the emerging significance of this landmark case.
The climate crisis has prompted global concern regarding the legal responsibilities of states to protect the environment, particularly against the adverse effects of greenhouse gas emissions. The International Court of Justice has never before convened such extensive proceedings focused on climate obligations, marking a significant shift in international law. The outcome of this case is expected to set important precedents for future environmental litigation and policy-making. In response to a growing advocacy for climate justice and accountability, this advisory opinion aims to clarify the legal frameworks that govern states’ obligations toward climate protection.
In summary, Harj Narulla’s participation in the ICJ proceedings represents a momentous step in the legal discourse surrounding climate change. The Court’s advisory opinion will not only outline the obligations of states under international law but also delineate the consequences for those failing to meet these responsibilities. The outcome could reshape international environmental law and reinforce the necessity for state accountability in combating climate change.
Original Source: www.doughtystreet.co.uk
