Top UN court sets date for landmark climate change hearings

illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Euronews or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: The International Court of Justice (ICJ) will hold public hearings starting December 2nd to define countries' legal obligations in combating climate change
• This landmark case seeks a non-binding advisory opinion on states' duties under international law to address human-caused greenhouse gas emissions

🔭 The context: The UN General Assembly referred the case to the ICJ, hoping to push nations toward more aggressive climate action
• The ICJ's advisory opinion could influence future climate litigation worldwide, particularly concerning the responsibilities of countries toward small island developing states most vulnerable to climate change

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The court's ruling, while non-binding, could set a global precedent for legal actions related to climate change, potentially holding governments accountable for failing to mitigate environmental harm

⏭️ What's next: After the December hearings, the ICJ's judges will deliberate, with a final opinion expected in 2025
• The outcome could shape international climate policy and influence global legal standards

💬 One quote: UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized that this case could "encourage nations to take the bolder and stronger climate action that our world so desperately needs"

📈 One stat: The court received written submissions from 62 nations and organizations, including major powers like the EU, UK, US, and Brazil

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