Ralph Regenvanu, Vanuatu’s Climate Change envoy, criticized Australia and the US for relying on failed treaties during ICJ climate hearings. He emphasized that climate destruction violates international law and called for accountability and decisive action from major polluters. His appeal extends to former colonial powers like France and the UK to support Vanuatu’s legal push for climate justice. He urged immediate action to combat climate change, stressing that no nation can ignore this existential threat any longer.
Ralph Regenvanu, Vanuatu’s Special Envoy for Climate Change, has expressed significant concern regarding the actions of Australia, the United States, and other major polluters during the International Court of Justice (ICJ) climate hearings held in The Hague. He criticized these nations for their reliance on ineffective treaties rather than taking substantial steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Regenvanu emphasized the urgent need for accountability, stating that nations must recognize the impact of climate change as an existential threat that impacts all countries. He called for immediate legal recognition of climate destruction as a breach of international law and urged nations to align their actions with global principles of justice and environmental responsibility.
Regenvanu called particular attention to the inadequacies displayed by Australia and the United States, denouncing their substantial greenhouse gas emissions and failure to grasp the magnitude of the climate crisis. He further noted that these nations, along with Saudi Arabia and China, have pointed to existing treaties that have not yielded the necessary reduction in emissions. Vanuatu asserts that the devastation caused by climate change violates international obligations, encompassing human rights and environmental contingencies.
The envoy expressed disappointment at the lack of acknowledgment from major nations regarding their responsibilities, particularly since Vanuatu, like many other vulnerable nations, relies on them for aid and support. Regenvanu articulated that the conduct contributing to climate change is not only reckless but unlawful under various international statutes. He stated that the continued deterioration of the climate system necessitates urgent legal recognition and collaboration to mitigate damages and safeguard future generations.
In a broader appeal, he urged former colonial powers such as France and the United Kingdom to actively support Vanuatu’s pursuit of justice and highlighted the crucial role these countries could play in reaffirming their commitment to solidarity and the rule of law. Regenvanu concluded with a clarion call for immediate action from all nations, particularly those capable and historically responsible, insisting that the time for decisive action grounded in international law has arrived.
He reiterated, “No country can afford to keep its head in the sand any longer. The time for decisive, legally grounded action is now.”
Vanuatu has been one of the nations most adversely affected by climate change, facing rising sea levels and severe environmental degradation. In light of these challenges, the country has sought to hold major polluters accountable for their contributions to global warming and climate change, arguing that their actions violate international legal obligations concerning human rights and environmental conservation. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has become a platform for Vanuatu to advocate for urgent legal measures and cooperative efforts to combat climate issues. Vanuatu’s stance emphasizes the need for accountability and action among the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitters, particularly in light of their historical responsibilities to mitigate climate change.
The statements made by Ralph Regenvanu highlight the pressing issues pertaining to climate change and the responsibilities of major global emitters. His call for accountability underscores the necessity for immediate and legally grounded action to combat climate crises. As Vanuatu navigates its pursuit of justice on behalf of vulnerable nations, the involvement of influential countries becomes critical in addressing these existential threats facing the planet. It is imperative that all nations recognize their responsibilities and enact substantive measures to effect meaningful change.
Original Source: islandsbusiness.com
