FOSSIL FUEL NATIONS FACE PAYOUTS FOR CLIMATE HARM
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has issued a landmark advisory opinion stating that nations failing to curb fossil fuel use—including through subsidies, exploration licenses, or unchecked emissions—could be held legally liable for climate damages and ordered to pay reparations. The unanimous ruling, hailed as a victory for climate justice by vulnerable nations like Vanuatu, affirms that states must regulate private sector emissions and adhere to international law, even if they exit climate agreements.
While non-binding, the opinion strengthens legal pathways for lawsuits seeking compensation for climate harms, including ecosystem restoration and monetary damages. The ICJ rejected arguments that the Paris Agreement alone governs climate obligations, citing multiple treaties and principles like intergenerational equity.
The decision, spurred by Pacific Island advocacy, challenges major emitters and could influence global climate negotiations, despite opposition from the U.S. and others.
