Nepal has demanded climate justice at the International Court of Justice, stressing the severe impacts of climate change on its people. Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba highlighted the disproportionate suffering faced by Nepal, attributing the burden to global factors. The court sessions seek to clarify legal responsibilities of states regarding climate change, emphasizing the necessity for developed countries to assist vulnerable nations.
At the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, Nepal has boldly advocated for climate justice, laying bare the severe repercussions of climate change on its populace. In a compelling oral presentation, Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba emphasized Nepal’s suffering, stating that the nation faces disproportionate effects from climate change, attributing this plight to responsibilities for which it bears no guilt. The minister cited alarming trends, such as melting glaciers and increasingly volatile weather patterns, that jeopardize the country’s mountains and agricultural livelihoods, ultimately ravaging local economies and communities.
During the proceedings, Deuba articulated a deep concern over human rights violations linked to international climate obligations, asserting that vulnerable nations like Nepal struggle to fulfill their rights due to external factors beyond their control. He highlighted that despite its crucial role in global ecological balance, Nepal’s developmental challenges exacerbate its vulnerability. The court sessions also addressed the importance of distinguishing obligations based on individual state circumstances, particularly for landlocked and mountainous nations.
Moreover, Udaya Raj Sapkota, Secretary at the Ministry of Law, voiced the necessity for wealthy nations to uphold their commitments under the Paris Agreement, urging for appropriate support to assist Nepal and others in facing climate-related challenges. In a later statement, under secretary Suvanga Parajuli asserted that developed countries must accept responsibility and compensate for historical emissions, emphasizing that Nepal’s demands are rooted in the pursuit of compensatory climate justice rather than mere charity. These discussions are part of broader advisory proceedings at the ICJ that seek to clarify states’ legal obligations regarding climate change, with participation from numerous nations and organizations.
The legal proceedings at the International Court of Justice revolve around clarifying the obligations of states concerning climate change and their impacts on vulnerable countries. The current situation highlights the ethical and legal responsibilities of developed nations toward those adversely affected by climate change, particularly small island states and developing countries. This particular initiative was catalyzed by previous efforts from countries like Vanuatu, emphasizing the urgent need for international recognition and aid to assist nations grappling with climate crises as a result of global emissions.
In conclusion, Nepal’s strong appeal for climate justice at the International Court of Justice underscores the urgent need for accountability from developed nations regarding climate change impacts on vulnerable countries. As the proceedings advance, they aim to establish a clearer legal framework that compels nations to recognize their obligations under international law. Nepal’s argument emphasizes a call for compensatory justice rather than voluntary aid, marking a critical step toward equitable climate action and responsibility.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
