Climate – Advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Obligations of States in respect of Climate Change (24 July 2025)

On March 29, 2023, the UN General Assembly requested, via a resolution co-sponsored by all EU Member States, an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice concerning the obligations of States in respect of climate change. Questions submitted to the Court for their opinion dealt with States’ international obligations with respect to the protection of the climate system and the environment from anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions and the ensuing legal consequences for States.

Along with some 100 States and international organizations, France took part in this advisory process by filing written statements with the Court and participating in arguments. France defended an ambitious reading of the Paris Climate Agreement and called on all States to abide by their obligations to protect the climate system and other environmental components.

France takes note of the opinion issued by the Court on July 23, which marks an end to these historic proceedings. This landmark opinion will be studied very closely.

France reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the ICJ. It will continue working ambitiously to achieve its climate goals and to support its partners.