ICJ Opinion a ‘Win’ for Pacific, Says Waqa

Historic ICJ climate ruling shows small States’ power

Developing nations and campaigners have hailed the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling that governments have a legal duty to prevent and repair damage to the climate system. In a landmark case brought by the sinking Pacific island nation of Vanuatu, the ICJ’s 15 judges on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, decided unanimously that governments have […]

St Vincent hails ICJ advisory opinion on climate after years of advocacy

On Sunday, St Vincent Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves declared that the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) advisory opinion on climate change marks a significant victory for small states like St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG). He stated that it positions the island nation favorably in history, as his administration has long championed climate justice, particularly […]

ICJ opinion a ‘win’ for Pacific, says Waqa

Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) Secretary General Baron Waqa says he anticipates increased climate-driven action across the Pacific following the recent advisory opinion issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on states’ legal obligations regarding climate change. Speaking at the conclusion of the Fifth Pacific Women Leaders Meeting, Mr Waqa described the opinion as a “major win” for the Pacific and other vulnerable small isl…

A Single Paragraph’s Promise: The ICJ’s Advisory Opinion on Climate Change and the Understated Question of Human Displacement

Five key takeaways from the ICJ’s historic climate ruling and what comes next

The ICJ’s advisory opinion spells out states’ duties on climate, opening doors for lawsuits and stronger climate action