Harj Narulla will represent the Solomon Islands at the ICJ in historic climate change advisory opinion proceedings from December 2 to 13. The Court will examine State obligations regarding climate protection, addressing significant harm caused by anthropogenic emissions. Narulla’s arguments are vital in this unprecedented gathering of 98 States and intergovernmental organizations, with an expected livestreamed presentation on December 5.
This week, Harj Narulla will advocate for the Solomon Islands before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in a groundbreaking advisory opinion proceeding focused on climate change. Running from December 2 to 13, this unprecedented hearing will involve submissions from 98 States and 12 intergovernmental organizations regarding the obligations of nations toward climate protection. This event marks the largest gathering of its kind in the history of the ICJ, reflecting increasing global concern about climate issues.
The proceedings stem from a unanimous request by the United Nations General Assembly on March 29, 2023, through resolution 77/276. The ICJ is tasked with addressing two critical questions: first, the obligations of States under international law to protect the climate system from human-induced greenhouse gas emissions; and second, the legal consequences for States that have caused significant environmental harm through their actions or inactions.
These inquiries are taking place in the context of parallel advisory proceedings occurring at the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea and the Inter-American Court of Human Rights. The ICJ’s upcoming ruling is anticipated to clarify and possibly shape international law regarding climate accountability. Harj Narulla has also participated in hearings in Barbados and Brazil earlier this year, emphasizing the interconnectedness of these climate change discussions.
Mr. Narulla is scheduled to present the arguments of the Solomon Islands on December 5 at 4:00 PM CET, with the proceedings set to be livestreamed on the UN’s official website. He will be joined by Solomon Islands Attorney General John Muria. His work is supported by the Attorney General’s Office and the Pro Bono team from DLA Piper, who have been instrumental in these efforts. Narulla’s insights have prompted extensive media coverage, contributing to a broader public discourse on the climate change legal framework.
The advisory opinion proceedings at the International Court of Justice represent a significant development in international climate law. As global warming and environmental degradation intensify, there is growing recognition of the necessity for legal frameworks that hold States accountable for their contributions to climate change. The involvement of multiple countries and organizations in these proceedings underscores a collective effort to address the urgent challenges posed by climate issues. Previous cases at the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea and the Inter-American Court of Human Rights have set precedents in environmental law that may influence the Court’s decisions.
In summary, Harj Narulla’s upcoming presentation at the International Court of Justice is poised to be a landmark event in the realm of international climate law. The detailed inquiries regarding State obligations and legal repercussions for environmental harm will likely have lasting implications. As the world seeks solutions to the climate crisis, the ICJ’s findings could play a vital role in shaping international approaches towards accountability and protection of the climate system.
Original Source: www.doughtystreet.co.uk
