Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa has welcomed the International Court of Justice's advisory opinion on state obligations regarding climate change as a landmark moment in the region’s pursuit of climate justice.
While speaking on behalf of all Pacific leaders, Waqa is urging development partners to honour the advisory opinion and support efforts to secure a safe and sustainable future for all.
He says the opinion is a powerful legal instrument that can help hold major emitters accountable and better protect vulnerable Pacific communities from worsening climate impacts.
The Secretary General adds that the ruling is expected to shape international environmental law and how states meet their responsibilities under climate change frameworks.
Waqa also paid tribute to the government and people of Vanuatu for their leadership in championing the ICJ initiative across the Pacific and on the global stage.
He says with the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting set to be held in the Solomon Islands under the theme “You, Me, Together, Act Now for an Integrated Blue Pacific Continent”, the ICJ opinion comes at a crucial time to galvanise both regional and international action.
Waqa says the Pacific now has a clear legal roadmap to pursue transformation and accountability in the climate fight.
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