ICJ Climate Ruling Boosts Global Pressure on Polluting Countries

TDT | Manama

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The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has issued a historic opinion on climate change, reinforcing the legal duties of countries to take strong action against global warming. Although the court’s advisory opinion isn’t legally binding, legal experts and climate advocates say the decision carries significant weight and could reshape global climate policy and court battles.

The ruling, requested by the UN General Assembly, clarifies that all nations are bound by international law to prevent environmental harm, including damage to the climate. It affirms that governments must make ambitious efforts to reduce emissions in line with the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

“This is as strong a ruling as we could have hoped for,” said Cesar Rodriguez-Garavito, Professor of Law at New York University. “The ICJ made it clear that countries have legally binding responsibilities not to inflict serious damage on the climate.”

The decision may not force polluting countries to change overnight, but it provides powerful support for nations and communities already suffering from climate impacts. Legal scholars say it opens the door for future lawsuits — including demands for compensation if states fail to act and harm is done.

Markus Gehring, professor of international law at the University of Cambridge, said the opinion could influence future court decisions. “We are not yet at a stage where one country can sue another for climate damage,” he explained, “but this ruling sketches a path forward for such claims.”

The ICJ also emphasized that countries may be required to repair damaged ecosystems or infrastructure — or provide financial compensation if restoration is impossible.

While it may take years to see the full impact, experts say the court’s message is clear: international law holds governments accountable for protecting the planet, and the world is watching.