International law is crucial in tackling climate change, particularly in ensuring that states are held accountable, according to Attorney-General Graham Leung. During a Pacific Regional workshop for the International Court of Justice (ICJ) last week, Leung emphasized the opportunity to embed climate change issues within the larger framework of international legal obligations through the ICJ.
He stated that this platform could guide global climate action for many years to come. “This forum can enhance our efforts to apply established legal principles, such as transboundary environmental obligations and state responsibility, to the issue of climate change,” he added.
Leung remarked that the forum could strengthen accountability mechanisms essential for ensuring that states meet their climate responsibilities under both existing and future agreements. He expressed optimism that the speakers’ workshop would offer essential training geared towards preparing legal arguments and strategies for the ICJ oral hearings, as well as enhancing knowledge of the procedural and substantive aspects of ICJ processes.
“It will provide us an opportunity to unify our voices as a region, presenting a coordinated position on state obligations concerning climate change,” he noted. Leung encouraged participants to share their expertise and experiences, highlighting that together, they could formulate compelling arguments that would resonate with the ICJ and promote the region’s interests.