Island nation warns: Ready to sue countries over emissions

 

TT-AFP

Published 18.22

 

Bridled terns fly over Helen Island, part of Palau. File photo. Photo: Yannick Peterhans/AP/TT

Wealthy nations must increase their climate efforts and take action to prevent global warming. This is the message from the leader of the island nation of Palau, who warns of potential legal action if such measures are not taken.

"We want people to change their behavior, to make good decisions for the planet and for the people who live on it—and sometimes a 'big stick' is needed to get people to fall into line. That is the role the ICJ (International Court of Justice) plays," says Palau’s President, Surangel Whipps Jr.

Palau—located in the Pacific Ocean with a population of approximately 20,000—worked alongside other island nations in the region to spearhead an initiative that led the ICJ to conclude that all states have a legal obligation to protect the climate.

According to the ICJ, any country that fails to meet this obligation risks committing an "internationally wrongful act."

Surangel Whipps Jr. emphasizes that he is prepared to go all the way and initiate legal proceedings if major emitters fail to do everything in their power to reduce their climate impact.

"If actions aren't taken and promises aren't kept, then these mechanisms allow us to do just that—to sue these countries in order to hold them accountable for their actions," he says.