Attorney General of Pakistan (AGP) Mansoor Usman Awan has called on the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to issue an advisory opinion to effectively address the pressing challenges posed by climate change. Speaking at the ICJ public hearing on climate change, Awan emphasized that ignoring the climate emergency is no longer an option for humanity.
The Urgency of Climate Action
Awan outlined the severe impacts of climate change on Pakistan’s population and economy, stressing that immediate action is necessary to protect lives and livelihoods. He noted, “We are the first generation to feel the effects of climate change and the last generation that can take action.” The AGP emphasized that urgent steps must be taken to prevent further destruction.
Devastating Floods of 2022
He highlighted the catastrophic floods in 2022 that submerged a third of Pakistan, affected 33 million people, and led to reconstruction costs surpassing $16 billion. The floods served as a stark reminder of the devastating effects of climate change on vulnerable populations.
Global Disparity in Climate Impact
The Attorney General also referenced the remarks of UN Secretary-General António Guterres during his 2022 address to the UN General Assembly. Guterres pointed out that while Pakistan contributes less than one percent to global greenhouse gas emissions, it faces climate-induced fatalities at 15 times the rate of other countries.
Commitment to the Paris Agreement
Pakistan emphasized the importance of the Paris Agreement under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) as the primary framework for addressing climate change obligations. Awan stressed the need for these obligations to align with the principles of equity and Common But Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC), encompassing climate finance, mitigation, cooperation, and dispute resolution.
International Responsibility to Prevent Climate Damage
Finally, Pakistan reiterated that the responsibility to prevent climate damage is intertwined with treaty obligations and falls under applicable international law. The country called for a unified global effort to combat the climate crisis and mitigate its impacts on vulnerable nations.
