International Court of Justice Takes Historic Step in Addressing Climate Change**

The International Court of Justice begins hearings to clarify nations' duties under international law regarding climate protection, spotlighting accountability for greenhouse gas emissions.**

The International Court of Justice (ICJ), the highest judicial authority of the United Nations, is set to start landmark hearings focused on climate change, as the world grapples with increasing global warming. Set to begin on Monday, this unprecedented case explores the extent to which international law can be leveraged to enforce climate protection measures and determine whether major polluting countries can face legal repercussions for not adequately addressing climate change.

The ICJ, headquartered in The Hague and composed of 15 judges, will conduct these hearings over the next two weeks following a request made by the United Nations General Assembly last year. The primary questions before the court revolve around the legal obligations of nations in safeguarding the Earth's climate from greenhouse gas emissions and the potential consequences if these obligations are neglected, resulting in substantive harm.

Scientists have consistently warned about the escalating climate crisis, and these proceedings come shortly after COP 29, the latest UN climate summit held in Baku, Azerbaijan. This summit revolved around discussions aimed at securing financing for the transition to renewable energy sources and enhancing the capacity of poorer nations to withstand extreme climate-related events.

As these hearings unfold, attention will be on who represents different nations and coalitions, how existing international treaties are interpreted concerning climate obligations, and when the ICJ is expected to issue its opinion. The outcome of these discussions could bear significant implications for global climate jurisprudence and international accountability in combating climate change.