Spain welcomes ICJ advisory opinion on obligations of States in respect of climate change

Spain welcomes the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice on the obligations of States in respect of climate change.

The Court notes that climate change treaties oblige State Parties to ensure the protection of climate and the environment fr​om greenhouse gas emissions. It also determines that a State's failure to comply with its climate obligations constitutes an internationally wrongful act that may give rise to an obligation to make reparation to affected States.

Spain participated in the process, arguing that the obligation to prevent damage caused by climate change is part of the obligations of States under international law. Spain also defended the human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment.