Ralph Regenvanu, Vanuatu’s Special Envoy for Climate Change, criticized major emitters including Australia and the US at the ICJ climate hearings for evading accountability and relying on ineffective treaties. He stressed that climate change threatens all nations and urged immediate action to address emissions failures. Regenvanu called for former colonial powers to support Vanuatu’s pursuit of justice and highlighted the need for cooperative efforts to resolve the ongoing climate crisis.
Vanuatu’s Special Envoy for Climate Change, Ralph Regenvanu, recently criticized Australia, the United States, and other prominent carbon emitters during the International Court of Justice (ICJ) climate hearings held in The Hague. He condemned these nations for relying on ineffective treaties instead of implementing substantial measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Regenvanu emphasized that climate change constitutes an existential threat that impacts all countries, irrespective of their political or geographical context, and urged immediate accountability for emissions failures.
Expressing particular frustration with the positions of Australia and the United States, Regenvanu pointed out their major contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions and their reluctance to recognize the severity of the climate crisis. He stated, “We are obviously disappointed by the statements made by the governments of Australia, the United States, Saudi Arabia, and China during the ICJ proceedings. These nations… have regrettably failed to motivate substantial reductions in emissions.”
Vanuatu’s argument centers on the assertion that ongoing climate degradation violates international law, encompassing both human rights and environmental responsibilities. Regenvanu articulated concern that nations upon whom Vanuatu relies for support have not fully acknowledged their duties under international law, thus exacerbating the challenges faced by vulnerable nations. He remarked that the actions contributing to climate change are not merely irresponsible but unlawful in violation of several international obligations. He urged for immediate legal recognition of the climate crisis and a cooperative global effort to address and rectify these harms.
Additionally, Regenvanu called on former colonial powers like France and the United Kingdom to back Vanuatu’s pursuit of justice. He asserted, “We hold hope that our former colonial powers, including France and the United Kingdom, will recognise the gravity of this moment and support our continued self-determination.” Furthermore, he urged all nations with significant capabilities and historical responsibilities to act in alignment with international law and to address the urgent needs of the planet, reinforcing that the time for decisive action is now.
The article discusses critical statements made by Ralph Regenvanu, Vanuatu’s Special Envoy for Climate Change, during the ICJ hearings regarding climate change accountability. It highlights the responsibilities of major polluting nations in addressing climate change and the impact of their emissions on vulnerable nations like Vanuatu. The context of international law and climate justice underpins the discussions, emphasizing the need for urgent action to mitigate climate impacts.
In conclusion, Ralph Regenvanu’s remarks at the ICJ hearings underscore the urgent necessity for accountability among major greenhouse gas emitters, particularly Australia and the United States. The situation calls for immediate and meaningful action to combat climate change and uphold international obligations. Vanuatu’s position amplifies the voice of vulnerable nations, challenging powerful countries to recognize their responsibilities and take decisive steps to address the climate crisis.
Original Source: islandsbusiness.com
