FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 20, 2026
New York – In a turning point for climate leadership, the United Nations General Assembly today adopted a resolution affirming the legal obligations of States to limit emissions in line with the 1.5℃ target and prevent further climate harm. The resolution on the Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice on the Obligations of States in Respect of Climate Change was backed by a vast majority of States, reinforcing that urgent climate action is not an option, but an obligation.
The UN resolution was the result of a multi-year journey to enshrine climate responsibility in international law led by Vanuatu and a group of States, aiming to recognize the legal responsibilities to limit emissions, begin the just transition to renewable energy, and protect States threatened by sea-level rise and other climate impacts.
Fenton Lutunatabua, 350.org Pacific and Caribbean Lead said:
“This is a critical next stage for an Advisory Opinion that was not meant to sit on a shelf, but to operationalize and rally States under international law. This vote shows the vast majority agreed there is an absolute obligation to stop runaway climate change. Today we get closer to that goal, and our children get closer to a safer, more secure future. Our communities also get closer to receiving justice for the suffering the fossil fuel industry has caused, and the havoc wreaked upon our shorelines as we pay with our lives and our pockets to rebuild after yet another cyclone, yet another flood.”
Anne Jellema, 350.org Executive Director said:
“This resolution marks a turning point, a clear affirmation that governments are not only morally bound, but legally responsible for protecting people from climate harm. For too long, the gap between promises and action has widened while communities on the frontlines pay the price. Today’s vote brings us closer to closing that gap. It strengthens the foundation for accountability, accelerates the shift away from fossil fuels, and sends a powerful signal that the era of impunity is coming to an end. The task now is simple: turn this legal recognition into urgent, real-world action that delivers justice for those most affected.”
Media Contact:
Drue Slatter
+679 7091345
Ilang-Ilang Quijano
+639175810934