By Pita Ligaiula in Honiara, Solomon Islands
Kiribati President Taneti Maamau says the International Court of Justice (ICJ) advisory opinion on climate change is a landmark decision that strengthens the fight for accountability and action on behalf of vulnerable nations.
Speaking at a side event on the ICJ opinion in Honiara at the margins of the Forum Leaders Meeting, President Maamau said the ruling is a breakthrough for small island states.
“The ICJ advisory opinion is a milestone and a great achievement for the global family, especially those facing the dire consequences of climate change, mostly in our part of the world, the Pacific region,” he said.
He said the opinion provides legal clarity on the obligations of states and the consequences small island countries face as climate impacts worsen.
“It helps to validate our climate concerns, and especially to recognise the catastrophic threats posed by climate change to our sovereignty, territorial rights, and human integrity,” he said.
President Maamau stressed the ruling sets an important precedent.
“The decision establishes a framework for holding states accountable for greenhouse gas emissions and the climate impact on nations like Kiribati and the rest of us,” he said.
He added that the outcome also strengthens the Pacific’s collective voice.
“It will empower Pacific voices by providing a platform for Pacific Island countries to pursue their rights and interests in the international climate negotiations,” he said.
Maamau also acknowledged the leadership of Vanuatu and Pacific youth in pushing for the ICJ case.
“On behalf of my country and the Pacific region, I thank the government and the people of Vanuatu for taking such an ambitious initiative together with our youth community throughout the Pacific,” he said.
