In early December - right after COP29 - a crucial moment for climate justice will take place: the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is organizing oral hearings for States to inform its advisory opinion (AO) on climate change. So if you are frustrated with the lack of progress at COPs and want to push for climate justice, Join the Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL)’s information & strategy briefing to learn more about what is happening and how you can get involved! 

When?

• [Eastern Call]: Wednesday 30 October, 8.00-9.00 am CET | 7.00-8.00 pm FJT
  → Register here 

• [Western Call]: Thursday 31 October, 3.00-4.00 pm CET | 10.00-11.00 am EDT
  → Register here 

What’s on the programme?

Activists & experts involved in the ICJ AO campaign will explain the significance of this moment, the legal state of play, civil society and Indigenous Peoples engagement so far, and expected outcomes. We will also strategize around how to leverage this moment for a strong outcome, and mobilize before (including at COP29 in Baku) and during the hearings.  Please see the concept note attached to this email.

Why this matters? 

Progress on addressing climate change has been far too slow! The ICJ AO will be important to leverage to advance climate justice and human rights. Unfortunately, the ICJ AO process is quite closed to civil society with very limited modalities for participation. But as States engage in the process they, and the Court, should know that civil society is watching. 

For such an opinion to move beyond the courtroom, for legal words to have meaning and to have an impact on peoples’ lives: mobilization of civil society is essential.

The ICJ AO is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to unlock progress towards climate justice - we simply cannot afford not to engage proactively around this process!