Harj Narulla will represent the Solomon Islands at the ICJ, presenting oral arguments in historic advisory proceedings on climate change from December 2-13. The Court will address two main questions regarding State obligations and legal consequences related to climate harm. This case, the largest of its kind in ICJ history, follows a UN General Assembly resolution requesting clarity on these pressing issues.
Harj Narulla is set to represent the Solomon Islands at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) this week in critical advisory opinion proceedings concerning climate change. From December 2 to December 13, the ICJ will hear inputs from 98 States and 12 intergovernmental organizations regarding State obligations in relation to climate change. This represents the largest case of its kind in the Court’s history, prompted by a unanimous resolution from the UN General Assembly on March 29, 2023.
The Court will address two pivotal questions: firstly, the obligations of States under international law to safeguard the climate system against anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions for current and future generations; secondly, the legal ramifications for States that have inflicted significant harm to the climate system through their actions or inactions.
These proceedings are taking place alongside discussions on climate change at the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea and the Inter-American Court of Human Rights. Narulla has previously participated in relevant hearings in Barbados and Brazil as part of the ongoing efforts to address these critical issues.
Harj Narulla is scheduled to present oral arguments at 4:00 pm CET on Thursday, December 5, with the proceedings being livestreamed on the UN website. He will be joined by John Muria, the Attorney General of the Solomon Islands. Narulla’s work is supported by the Attorney General’s Office of the Solomon Islands and the Pro Bono team at DLA Piper, and he has engaged with various media outlets regarding the case.
The International Court of Justice plays a fundamental role in interpreting and applying international law, and its upcoming proceedings concerning climate change mark an unprecedented moment in the pursuit of global environmental justice. Following a UN General Assembly resolution that underscored the grave risks posed by climate change, the Court seeks to clarify the legal obligations that States hold in preserving the climate system for the well-being of current and future generations. This advisory opinion may significantly influence international climate policy and legal frameworks.
The forthcoming appearance of Harj Narulla at the International Court of Justice signifies a monumental step in addressing the pressing issue of climate change, as the Court prepares to clarify the legal responsibilities of States in protecting the environment. With numerous countries and organizations participating in this extensive proceedings, the implications of the Court’s advisory opinion could resonate globally, contributing to future international climate action and accountability.
Original Source: www.doughtystreet.co.uk
