At ICJ, India blames developed nations for the climate crisis
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 4)
| Topic: GS2 – International Relations, GS3 – Environment |
| Context |
| ● The news discusses India’s position during a landmark hearing at the International Court of Justice, where it criticized developed nations for causing the climate crisis and failing to meet climate finance commitments.
● India highlighted the unequal responsibility for climate degradation and its own climate goals. ● The country also raised concerns about the burden on its citizens in addressing climate change. |
India’s Stance at the ICJ on Climate Crisis
Developed Countries’ Role in the Crisis
- India criticized developed countries for their historical contribution to the climate crisis.
- India stated that these countries exploited the global carbon budget and failed to fulfill their climate finance
- Despite their minimal contribution to global emissions, developing countries are bearing the brunt of climate change impacts.
Unequal Responsibility for Climate Degradation
- India emphasized that responsibility for climate change should be distributed equally, considering the unequal contribution to global degradation.
- India stressed that those who have benefited the most from fossil fuel usage are now discouraging developing nations from utilizing their own energy resources for growth.
Climate Finance Commitments Unfulfilled
- India highlighted the failure of developed countries to honor climate finance commitments, particularly the $100 billion pledge made at the Copenhagen COP in 2009.
- The new climate finance package from COP29 was criticized as insufficient and distant, failing to address the immediate needs of the Global South.
Commitment to Climate Targets with Caution
- India reaffirmed its commitment to the Paris Agreement but expressed concerns about overburdening its citizens.
- The country emphasized the need to balance climate action with the socio-economic realities of sustaining one-sixth of the global population while pursuing Sustainable Development Goals.
| International Court of Justice |
| ● Principal judicial organ of the United Nations: Settles legal disputes between states and gives advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by authorized UN organs and specialized agencies.
● Located in The Hague, Netherlands: Known as the “World Court,” it is the successor to the Permanent Court of International Justice. ● 15 Judges: Elected to nine-year terms by the UN General Assembly and Security Council. ● Two types of cases: Contentious cases between states and advisory proceedings on legal questions. ● Judgments are binding: However, the ICJ has no way to enforce its decisions. ● Official languages: English and French. These languages are used for the court’s proceedings, documents, and communications. |
| Practice Question: Discuss the implications of the International Court of Justice’s examination of legal obligations on climate change. How does India’s stance on climate finance and the burden on developing nations reflect global challenges in addressing climate change? (150 Words /10 marks) |
