Papua New Guinea’s Commitment to Climate Change Justice through the International Court of Justice

Papua New Guinea will participate in the International Court of Justice for the first time to address climate change impacts. The nation aims to seek compensation and clarify legal obligations states hold in mitigating climate change, following a UNGA request for an advisory opinion. PNG’s delegation will attend the ICJ in early December, highlighting the challenges faced by Pacific nations and the need for climate finance and legal accountability.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is poised to make its inaugural appearance before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to address the pressing issues tied to climate change. Justice and Attorney-General Minister Pila Niningi announced that PNG has registered its intent to present an oral statement concerning the legal obligations of states with respect to climate change. This invitation follows a request from the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) for the ICJ to provide an advisory opinion on this critical matter. Minister Niningi underscored that this momentous event is aligned with PNG’s steadfast commitment to environmental sustainability and its imperative struggle against climate change. He indicated that his ministry will organize a delegation, including Justice and Attorney-General Secretary Dr. Eric Kwa, Acting Solicitor General E’ava Geik, Public Solicitor Leslie Mamu, along with representatives from the Department of Climate Change and Development Authority, to travel to the Netherlands on December 2 for a two-week participation at the ICJ. The decision was made during the 79th UNGA held recently in Fiji, where justice ministers and attorneys general from various Pacific and Caribbean nations congregated. Minister Niningi articulated, “PNG’s participation in the ICJ process will give voice to the challenges faced by Pacific Island nations which endure the direct impacts of rising sea levels and shifting weather patterns,” signifying the gravity of the situation as they confront the immediate impacts of climate perturbations. Additionally, the advisory opinion from the ICJ is expected to elucidate the legal responsibilities that states hold in their climate change mitigation efforts, thereby providing guidance on their obligations under international law, which encompasses human rights and environmental treaties. Prime Minister James Marape, while addressing the assembly, reiterated the importance of global partnership in safeguarding the Earth’s remaining tropical forests, including those in PNG, which play a crucial role in maintaining the planet’s ecological balance. He emphasized the necessity for equitable compensation and access to climate financing, which are vital for forest nations to sustainably manage their natural resources while tackling the global climate crisis.

The issue of climate change presents an existential threat, particularly to Pacific Island nations like Papua New Guinea. These countries face immediate dangers such as rising sea levels, with implications for their marine borders, biodiversity, and the livelihood of their indigenous populations. PNG’s participation in legal proceedings at the International Court of Justice represents a significant step in amplifying the voice of vulnerable nations on the global stage, addressing their legal rights and obligations regarding climate action.

In conclusion, Papua New Guinea’s engagement with the International Court of Justice marks a pivotal moment in advocating for the rights of nations adversely affected by climate change. Through this participation, PNG aims to clarify the legal responsibilities of states under international law and to seek justice and financial support for ongoing climate-related challenges. The initiative underscores the need for global cooperation in combatting climate change and highlights PNG’s commitment to preserving its rich environmental heritage for future generations.

Original Source: www.thenational.com.pg