Referring to the IPCC, he says exercising due diligence entails rapid and deep (and immediate) GHG emissions reductions in all sectors, in this decade.

"Required conduct [...] is, clear."

We see delays, low ambition, and no concrete plans from large emitting states.

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Professor Jorge E Vinuales at the ICJ hearing: He highlights that in 1969, it was established that states have a general obligation to ensure activities within their control do not harm the territories of other states, which was then argued in relation to nuclear activities.

Speakers representing Vanuatu and the Melanesian Spearhead Group so far have been highlighting the importance of self-determination of vulnerable (island) states. Climate change, they argue, violates their rights to self-determination.

Climate change is aptly referred to as an "Sisyphean task".

The much anticipated oral hearings before the ICJ have started!

Over the next two weeks, submissions will be made by country-representatives and NGOs regarding states' legal obligations to address climate change.

#ICJ #ClimateChange