World Court Declares Climate Inaction Illegal: Nations Face Reparations for Failing to Act

In a historic ruling, the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the United Nations' highest court, declared that all countries are legally obligated under international law to address climate change and limit greenhouse gas emissions. The court found that failing to act on climate change could be considered an 'internationally wrongful act,' opening the door for affected nations to seek reparations from major polluters. The advisory opinion emphasizes that a healthy environment is a human right and that wealthy nations, in particular, must comply with their climate commitments or face financial liability. This landmark decision is expected to strengthen global climate litigation and increase pressure on governments to take urgent action. The ruling is seen as a major victory for climate justice advocates and vulnerable nations, especially those most impacted by climate change.