Nepal has formally called for climate justice at the International Court of Justice, highlighting the severe impacts of climate change disproportionately affecting its citizens. Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba emphasized that the country bears the repercussions of global warming, with melting glaciers and intensified natural disasters threatening livelihoods. The proceedings at the ICJ seek to clarify legal obligations of states under international law regarding climate change, aiming for accountability and assistance from developed countries towards vulnerable nations like Nepal.
In a robust appeal to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Nepal has demanded climate justice, emphasizing the severe repercussions of climate change that disproportionately affect the nation. During a public hearing on the obligations of states concerning climate change, Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba asserted that Nepal suffers from the consequences of climate change caused by the actions of nations that have historically contributed most to global emissions. He stated that Nepal is unreasonably penalized for liabilities it did not incur, exemplifying the harsh realities of glacial melting and increasing natural disasters that threaten the country’s livelihoods and economy.
Nepal’s Foreign Minister noted that as a country vital to the maintenance of global climate balance, Nepal now faces escalating challenges due to its geographical disadvantages and limited resources. He pointed out that vulnerable states lack the means to meet their international human rights obligations when external emissions impact their citizens’ fundamental rights.
Nations like Vanuatu have also sought advisory opinions from the ICJ regarding the climate crisis, and Nepal’s case is part of a larger discourse involving 97 states and eleven international organizations. This hearing is expected to establish legal guidelines for how countries address climate change and may lead to future references in climate-related litigation.
Furthermore, Nepal’s representatives underscored the necessity of developed countries to assist in mitigating climate impacts for developing nations, adhering to the principles outlined in the Paris Agreement. Such assistance is crucial, particularly for the least developed countries and landlocked nations facing unique vulnerabilities. The emphasis on compensatory measures highlights Nepal’s call for accountability from developed nations for historic emissions.
The oral proceedings, taking place from December 2 to 12, 2023, are integral to shaping legal obligations related to state conduct on climate change and advancing the discourse on climate justice for vulnerable populations.
Nepal’s initiative at the International Court of Justice underscores the urgent need for climate justice as the nation grapples with the devastating effects of climate change. Nepal is characterized by its particular vulnerability due to its mountainous geography, which is experiencing accelerated glacial melting and increasingly severe weather events. The country’s representation at the ICJ, advocating against the backdrop of historical injustices in climate responsibilities, aims to confront the inequities faced by developing nations amid the climate crisis. This effort is set within a global context where various countries, including island nations, seek legal recourse for climate-related damages. Such proceedings may pave the way for establishing clearer obligations under international law regarding climate change, compelling nations to take responsibility for their emissions and support the vulnerable countries suffering the consequences.
Nepal’s demand for climate justice at the International Court of Justice highlights the urgent need for accountability and equitable assistance from developed nations regarding climate-related responsibilities. As the nation advocates for legal clarity on state obligations and compensation for historical emissions, it seeks to reinforce the rights of vulnerable communities affected by climate change. This case represents a significant movement towards establishing legal frameworks that will influence future international climate negotiations and actions.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
