The United Nations General Assembly voted 141–8 to approve a resolution supporting a world court decision that countries are legally obligated to address climate change. Notably, the United States, a significant historical emitter, opposed the resolution. Canada, a sponsor of the resolution, voted in favor.
The resolution, initiated by Vanuatu, a Pacific island nation, endorses an advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) from July 2025. This opinion asserts that states must reduce their use of fossil fuels and combat global warming.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized that governments have a duty to shield citizens from the worsening climate crisis. Though not legally binding, the ICJ opinion is anticipated to influence climate-related legal proceedings worldwide.
Lee-Anne Sackett, the special envoy for climate justice for Vanuatu, described the voting process as intense and a moment of relief. The resolution garnered support from China, the current top global emitter, while the United States, Saudi Arabia, Russia, and others opposed it. Nations like Turkey, India, Qatar, and Nigeria abstained.
The Trump administration’s withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement and its pro-fossil fuel policies were highlighted. The resolution holds countries accountable for their climate commitments and introduces legal ramifications for failing to regulate fossil fuel industries.
Experts view the resolution as a significant step towards taking action on climate change. It may impact countries like Canada, facing lawsuits for non-compliance with climate regulations. The vote could strengthen challenges against government decisions affecting the climate and prompt countries to align their domestic plans with international efforts to phase out fossil fuels.