Pacific countries take action to hold developed nations accountable for greenhouse gas emissions
In a trial that began on Monday (Dec 2, 2024), Australia was accused of undermining the efforts of Pacific countries in an emissions case beyond the 2015 Paris Agreement by arguing against requiring nations with high emissions to act beyond established commitments.
The initiative is led by Vanuatu, an island country in Oceania, and supported by Fiji, Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. The case seeks to establish legal responsibility for developed countries beyond current UN (United Nations) frameworks.
The case was heard by the UN ICJ (International Court of Justice). The action did not name major emitters, but drew attention to the need for climate action beyond existing agreements.
The Australian government, on the other hand, defended its commitment to the UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) and the Paris Agreement. Representatives argued that the agreements are central to global cooperation against climate change.
Greenpeace Australia-Pacific and the Australia Institute criticized the Australian position.
“The UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement were created to protect people, not to shield states like Australia from accountability. Compliance with these treaties is necessary, but not sufficient, to safeguard human rights and the environment.”declared the .
