Prime Minister Hon. James Marape applauds the International Court of Justice’s historic advisory opinion delivered on 23 July 2025, which asserts that countries have a legal obligation under international law to take decisive action on greenhouse gas emissions, and that failure to do so may constitute an “internationally wrongful act” .
“This ruling reinforces what Pacific nations have long championed: a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment is a fundamental human right,” said PM Marape. “It is a landmark for climate justice and for sovereign island nations like Papua New Guinea whose very existence is under threat.”
Key Takeaways from the ICJ Opinion:
• Legal Duty Established: States now have a clear international legal obligation to curb emissions from fossil fuels, and must address policies like exploration licences and fossil fuel subsidies .
• Right to Reparations: Countries suffering climate damage may be entitled to reparations if a causal link is established .
• Global and Regional Implications: While non-binding, the opinion provides powerful legal leverage for policy and litigation at a global scale—boosting momentum leading into COP30 in Brazil .
PM Marape’s Statement:
“This advisory opinion is a monumental victory for climate justice. It vindicates the voices and sacrifices of Pacific communities standing at the frontline of sea-level rise, extreme weather, and biodiversity loss..
“Papua New Guinea has long stood against environmental harm—from rejecting deep-sea mining to championing indigenous-led ocean reserves. This ruling empowers our efforts to safeguard our marine and forest ecosystems for future generations.
“We urge all nations—especially historic emitters—to honour their legal obligations and commit to urgent, equitable climate action. The era of delay and denial is over. The law is now clear.”
Next Steps for Papua New Guinea:
1. Amplify Advocacy: Use the ICJ opinion to strengthen PNG’s diplomatic engagement and demands during climate negotiations.
2. Drive Accountability: Explore legal pathways domestically and internationally that reinforce our environmental commitments.
3. Forge Strategic Partnerships: Leverage legal clarity to secure climate finance, bolster community-led conservation, and transition away from carbon- intensive industries.
4. Lead by Example: Continue enforcing moratoria on environmentally harmful practices, while promoting sustainable, inclusive development.
About Prime Minister Marape’s Track Record on Climate
• Strong opponent of deep-sea mining in PNG, citing risks to fishing, fragile ecosystems, and local livelihoods.
• Advocated for the Melanesian OceanReserve and supported Indigenous-led conservation initiatives at the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, June 2025.
• Called for elevated UN recognition of climate and sea-level rise threats at UNGA 79 in September 2024.
PM Marape’s unwavering stance and this legal breakthrough now provide authoritative backing for PNG’s climate agenda, aligning moral leadership with international law to protect our people, Nation, and Pacific region.