In a major milestone for small island nations fighting for survival against rising sea levels, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a landmark climate justice resolution backing the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on countries’ obligations in respect of climate change.
The resolution marks a significant moment for Vanuatu, a Pacific island nation on the frontline of the climate crisis, which led global efforts calling for greater accountability on climate action. Drawn up by Vanuatu along with several other countries, the resolution follows the ICJ’s 2025 advisory opinion outlining countries’ legal duties under international law to protect the environment from greenhouse gas emissions.
The United Nations General Assembly adopted the resolution with 141 countries voting in favour, eight voting against, and 28 abstaining.
The countries that voted against the resolution were United States, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Israel, Belarus, Yemen and Liberia.
The countries that abstained included India, Pakistan, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Nigeria and Türkiye among others.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the adoption, describing it as a “powerful affirmation of international law, climate justice, science, and the responsibility of States to protect people from the escalating climate crisis”.
“Those least responsible for climate change are paying the highest price. That injustice must end,” Guterres said in a post on X.
The resolution also notes that all UN member states must cooperate in addressing climate change, prevent significant environmental harm, and fulfil their commitments under international climate agreements, including the Paris Agreement.
Resolution Welcomes ICJ Advisory Opinion
The resolution welcomes the advisory opinion delivered by the International Court of Justice on the obligations of States in respect of climate change. It describes climate change as an unprecedented challenge affecting present and future generations and recalls the United Nations resolution recognising the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment as a human right.
It further recalls the Paris Agreement, the Kyoto Protocol and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. It also takes note of the Court’s findings regarding obligations of States under international law in respect of climate change.
Another section refers to the Court’s findings regarding protection of the climate system, prevention of significant environmental harm, cooperation among States and principles including sustainable development, equity, intergenerational equity and common but differentiated responsibilities.
The resolution also refers to findings relating to human rights in the context of climate change, including rights relating to life, health, food, water and an adequate standard of living.
Another section notes the Court’s findings regarding breaches of climate-related obligations and legal consequences arising from internationally wrongful acts, including cessation and reparations in certain circumstances.
