August M
The United Nations General Assembly has approved a new resolution reinforcing the responsibility of governments to tackle climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The move follows a landmark opinion from the International Court of Justice declaring that countries have binding obligations to address the climate crisis, reports DR News.
Strong backing at UN
The resolution passed Wednesday evening with support from 141 countries.
Eight nations voted against it, including the United States, Russia, and Iran, while 28 countries abstained.
According to the UN, the resolution urges governments to take “all possible steps” to prevent severe environmental and climate-related harm.
The measure was introduced by the Pacific island nation of Vanuatu, one of the countries considered most vulnerable to rising sea levels and extreme weather linked to climate change.
ICJ opinion gains support
The resolution builds on an advisory opinion issued last year by the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Although the ICJ’s opinion is not legally binding, it stated that governments have legal obligations to reduce emissions and adapt to the effects of climate change.
The court also suggested that countries suffering serious climate damage could in some cases seek compensation.
The UN General Assembly’s endorsement is seen as adding political weight to those findings.
Pressure on governments
The adopted text calls on states to cooperate in good faith and coordinate climate action internationally.
It also stresses that climate policies should protect fundamental rights, including the right to life, health, and adequate living standards.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the vote as a major signal of support for climate justice and international law.
“Those who are least responsible for climate change are paying the highest price. This injustice must end,” Guterres wrote on X.
Climate justice focus
Human rights organizations also welcomed the vote.
Camile Cortez, a climate justice campaigner with Amnesty International, said the resolution could influence global climate accountability for years to come.
The measure comes as growing numbers of countries face legal pressure over climate policies, emissions targets, and environmental damage linked to fossil fuels.
While the resolution itself is not legally enforceable, experts say it may strengthen future international legal cases related to climate responsibility.
Sources: DR News, Reuters, United Nations, Amnesty International
