Clear UN Support for Legal Climate Obligations

'The climate and nature crisis is the greatest shared challenge of our time. The crisis requires rapid, ambitious action and close international cooperation. We therefore welcome today's clear decision in the UN General Assembly. The ICJ's advisory opinion provides important clarification of states' obligations under international law and strengthens the basis for further climate action', says Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

The resolution was adopted with 141 votes in favor, 8 against, and 28 abstentions.

The General Assembly resolution reflects broad international support for the Court's work and for the follow-up of the opinion within the UN system.

Norway Emphasizes Follow-Up in the UN

In its statement, Norway emphasized the urgency of establishing strong and targeted climate action, and that such efforts must be based on knowledge and facts. Norway also highlighted the importance of following up the opinion within the UN in line with the Court's assessments and within the existing frameworks of international climate cooperation.

'The International Court of Justice's opinion can help strengthen international climate cooperation. For Norway, it is important that this is used to raise efforts within the framework of the Paris Agreement and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, and contributes to joint progress on emission reductions and climate adaptation', says Minister of Climate and the Environment Andreas Bjelland Eriksen.

The decision in the UN General Assembly demonstrates strong international engagement in both climate issues and international law.