UN General Assembly
2024

The latest IPCC report paints a bleak picture of our planet’s future. Yet, despite this stark warning, the global response to climate change remains inadequate, putting sustainable development and poverty eradication efforts at risk. The report warns we may breach a dangerous temperature threshold within the next decade. That is why Vanuatu has sought an **Advisory Opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ)** to clarify states’ legal obligations regarding climate change—an initiative that has garnered unprecedented global attention. The **91 written submissions** from states and organisations to the ICJ, in response to our consensus resolution last year, demonstrate the crucial importance of legal clarity on states’ responsibilities and accountability regarding climate action. This is not about blame or singling out countries. It is about clarifying the existing rules of international law and their implications for all nations—so we can establish a strong foundation for climate action and climate justice based on shared responsibility and accountability. I urge all UN Member States, especially other climate-vulnerable nations, to participate in these historic ICJ hearings, which begin on **2 December 2024**.