UN Assembly Backs Landmark Climate Court Ruling

Fossil fuels emit air pollutants that are harmful to both the environment and public health.

A landmark resolution adopted by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Wednesday has been described by UN Secretary-General António Guterres as “a powerful affirmation” of international law, climate justice, and science.

The Secretary-General said the resolution clearly reinforces the responsibility of member states to protect their populations from what he called an “escalating climate crisis”.

The resolution, prepared by Vanuatu, a Pacific island nation at the forefront of climate risks, along with several other countries, was adopted following extensive discussions and consideration of multiple amendments. It passed with 141 votes in favour, eight against, and 28 abstentions.

The countries voting against the resolution were Belarus, Iran, Israel, Liberia, Russia, Saudi Arabia, the United States, and Yemen.

The development follows the advisory opinion issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the UN’s principal judicial body, in July 2025. The court ruled that states have obligations to protect the environment from greenhouse gas emissions, a decision widely regarded as a significant breakthrough.

Guterres earlier described the ruling as “a victory for our planet”.

The court also stated that countries violating these obligations could face legal responsibility and may be required to stop harmful activities, provide guarantees against future violations, and make reparations where appropriate.

Although ICJ advisory opinions are not legally binding, they hold substantial legal and moral authority and contribute to the interpretation and development of international law.

The General Assembly's adoption of the resolution sends a strong signal that addressing climate change is not merely a political choice but also a legal responsibility under international law.

“The world’s highest court has spoken,” Guterres said. “Today, the General Assembly has responded.”

The resolution calls on all UN member states to take every possible measure to prevent significant damage to the climate and environment, including reducing emissions generated within their territories and fulfilling commitments made under the Paris Agreement.

Governments are also encouraged to strengthen cooperation and coordinate efforts to address climate change while ensuring that climate policies protect fundamental rights, including the rights to life, health, and an adequate standard of living.

Following the vote, Guterres said those least responsible for climate change continue to bear its greatest consequences and stressed the need for a rapid, fair, and equitable transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy.

He added that renewable energy has increasingly proven to be one of the most affordable and secure energy sources and said the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels remains achievable.