UN backs landmark World Court climate ruling
The United Nations General Assembly has adopted a landmark resolution backing the International Court of Justice’s advisory opinion on climate change, reinforcing the principle that governments have a legal responsibility to tackle the climate crisis and prevent environmental harm caused by greenhouse gas emissions.
The resolution, introduced by Vanuatu alongside a coalition of supporting countries, was approved with 141 votes in favour, eight against and 28 abstentions following extensive negotiations and debate among member states.
Countries voting against the resolution included United States, Russia, Saudi Arabia and Iran.
The move follows the landmark 2025 advisory opinion issued by the International Court of Justice, which concluded that states have obligations under international law to protect the climate system from greenhouse gas emissions and environmental damage.
The court further stated that countries failing to meet these obligations could face legal responsibility, including requirements to cease harmful conduct, provide guarantees against future violations and potentially make reparations where appropriate.
Although ICJ advisory opinions are not legally binding, they carry significant legal and diplomatic weight and are widely seen as shaping the interpretation of international law.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the General Assembly vote as “a powerful affirmation” of climate justice, science and international law.
“The world’s highest court has spoken. Today, the General Assembly has answered,” he said.
The resolution calls on governments to take all possible measures to avoid causing significant climate and environmental harm, including reducing emissions generated within their territories and honouring commitments under the Paris Agreement.
Member states are also urged to cooperate in good faith on global climate action and ensure climate policies protect fundamental human rights, including the rights to life, health and an adequate standard of living.
The vote marks a growing shift towards framing climate action not only as a political or economic priority, but increasingly as a matter of legal obligation and international accountability.
In a statement following the adoption, Guterres said the countries least responsible for climate change continue to suffer its harshest impacts, adding that climate justice requires “a rapid, just, and equitable transition away from fossil fuels towards renewable energy”.
The resolution is expected to strengthen legal and policy momentum around climate litigation, emissions reduction targets and international climate negotiations as governments face increasing pressure to align national policies with scientific climate goals.
