Antigua and Barbuda Once Again Takes Center Stage in ICJ Quest for Climate Justice
The Hague, The Netherlands, December 2nd, 2024 — Antigua and Barbuda, a resilient small island nation in the Caribbean, took center stage today as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) opened a two-week hearing on the Obligations of States in respect of Climate Change. Hon. Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, called on the Court to use its voice to “inspire the urgent action that has eluded the political arena”.
The hearing at the Peace Palace in the Hague is the latest milestone in a judicial process initiated when the UN General Assembly unanimously referred legal questions to the ICJ for an advisory opinion in March 2023. More than 100 States and international organizations are scheduled to speak – an unprecedented level of participation in an ICJ case.
Antigua and Barbuda sees the advisory opinion as an opportunity for the ICJ to delineate the imperative for States to elevate their climate ambitions and intensify efforts in critical areas of mitigation, adaptation, finance, and technical support. The hearing comes against the backdrop of an accelerating climate crisis and lackluster outcomes from the recent COP 29 meeting in Azerbaijan.
“Antigua and Barbuda has worked tirelessly to address this crisis. At every Conference of the Parties, from Paris to Baku, we have joined with other vulnerable nations to demand action—demand financing, demand justice”, Prime Minister Browne told the judges. He said that Antigua and Barbuda now turns to the Court “to clarify the obligations of States under international law before the clock on our survival runs out”. “We believe in the power of international law to bring about change”.
The proceedings before the ICJ followed a campaign led by Vanuatu and championed by other small island States, including Antigua and Barbuda. Over the course of 2024, participating States have submitted two rounds of detailed written submissions, addressing the specific legal questions referred to the Court by the UN General Assembly. Following the hearing, the 15 Judges will prepare an opinion that will become a crucial reference point for States in understanding what they must do in response to the climate crisis and the legal consequences of failing to take necessary action. The Court’s opinion is expected in 2025.
The ICJ proceedings build on similar judicial processes in other international courts. As a founding member of the Commission on Small Islands States (COSIS), Antigua and Barbuda was particularly active in advisory proceedings before the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea. Earlier this year, that Tribunal described stringent obligations to prevent, reduce and control marine pollution resulting from greenhouse gas emissions, among other obligations to protect and preserve the marine environment in the face of climate risks.
Antigua and Barbuda gratefully acknowledges the legal expertise and assistance provided by a committed team of lawyers working pro bono and coordinated by Sidley Austin LLP.
Composition of the Delegation to the International Court of Justice (ICJ):
Led by H.E. the Hon. Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, the delegation from Antigua and Barbuda also includes:
H.E. Colin Murdoch, Ambassador and Permanent Observer of OECS to the UNOG
Mr. Zachary Phillips, Agent to ICJ for Antigua and Barbuda in the Advisory Opinion proceedings
Ms. Jeniece St. Romain, Crown Counsel II, Attorney General’s Chambers, Ministry of Legal Affairs
Ms. Nneka Nicholas, Crown Counsel II, Attorney General’s Chambers, Ministry of Legal Affairs
Mr. J’Moul Francis, Legal Officer, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
About Antigua and Barbuda:
Antigua and Barbuda, nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, comprises two enchanting islands renowned for their pristine beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. With a population as diverse as its landscape, the nation is home to warm and welcoming communities who take pride in their heritage and natural surroundings as well as the rich biodiversity of their islands.
Beyond its picturesque shores, Antigua and Barbuda stands as a beacon of resilience in the face of environmental challenges. As a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), the nation confronts the existential threat of climate change with determination and resolve. From pioneering renewable energy initiatives to advocating for global climate action, Antigua and Barbuda has emerged as a leading voice in the fight against climate injustice.
Antigua and Barbuda hosted the recently held 4th Conference of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), which took place from May 27th to 30th 2024. The nation welcomed delegates from around the world and at this landmark event where there was unanimous support for a bold new 10-year plan of action to deliver meaningful change, foster innovative solutions and strengthen partnerships in pursuit of sustainable development for all SIDS – the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS).
Note to Editors:
High-resolution images, quotes from key stakeholders, and additional background information about Antigua and Barbuda’s climate resilience efforts and the upcoming SIDS conference are available upon request. Please direct all inquiries to the media contact listed above.
The Antiguan delegation also acknowledges and expresses gratitude to local designer Shemeber Whaul for the national accessories worn by the delegation.
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Pringle would never ever be able to lead such a delegation. He his not educated for the job. Lets not fool ourself. Everything about our country is now demonstrated on a global stage. We therefore have to ensure our leaders have the capacity to represent us globally and not embarrass us.
This demonstrates how small nations can make significant contributions to global issues, serving as a reminder that every voice matters in the climate fight
Mmmm okay before I form an unbiased opinion let’s wait and see…
It’s hard to believe how many scandals seem to come and go without any real accountability. The Antigua Airways situation feels like it was just brushed aside. What’s going to happen to those people who came here?
Remember all the hype around “Marvelous Mike”? It’s wild how quickly things can turn when the media isn’t paying attention anymore. I wonder if we’ll ever get real answers about the operations behind that venture.
At the end of the day, it all comes back to the people. We need to advocate for better governance and demand answers about projects like this—otherwise, nobody will take our concerns seriously.
Getting an ICJ advisory opinion could change how countries HAVE to respond to climate change. Not just empty promises anymore…
Yeah yeah more big fancy meetings 🙄 But my house nearly got flooded TWICE last hurricane season. Need action not more talking! Still, respect to your PM for trying something different
Been living here 40+ years and the changes are REAL. My grandkids might not see the same Antigua I grew up with if something doesn’t change fast. Hope these big shot judges actually listen 🙏
100+ countries speaking?! 😮 That’s huge! At least someone’s taking climate change seriously cause these COPs ain’t doing much… Hope this actually leads to something real this time
What the heck is “Climate Justice”? In which universe do these woke baloneys make any sense?
well anyway… I am okay with white countries giving away taxpayer’s money for this BS.
What an absolute crock! Browne might have some credibility if he had told Yearwood to aggressively transition APUA to renewable energy instead of committing Antiguans to another 30 years of Hadeeds fossil fuel generators. Give me a break!
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