In a major step toward inclusive and equitable climate action, UN Climate Change’s Regional Collaboration Centre for East and Southern Africa (RCC EASA) completed a two-year initiative to strengthen the leadership of women and gender experts in climate negotiations and national policy processes in East and Southern Africa.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening the leadership of women and gender experts in climate negotiations and national policy processes in East and Southern Africa. Photo credit: UN Climate Change
Funded by the African Development Bank’s Africa Climate Change Fund, the project culminated in the in the release of a technical guide on integrating gender in the preparation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and Long-Term Low-Emission Development Strategies (LT-LEDs). Designed for policymakers, national climate teams and gender focal points, the guide serves as a practical tool for integrating gender perspectives across climate planning and instruments.
Since its launch in February 2023, the initiative has supported 19 countries across the region, focusing on National Gender and Climate Change Focal Points (NGCCFPs) and other key negotiators. The project helped boost their ability to shape national policies and engage meaningfully in global negotiations, while advancing a vision of climate action that centers on equity and inclusivity.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the project team for the invaluable engagements over the past two years – from the insightful knowledge exchange sessions to the unwavering support in facilitating our participation in UNFCCC meetings,” said Jackline Makokha, Director of Gender at the State Department for Gender Affairs and Affirmative Action, Kenya and UNFCCC National Gender and Climate Change Focal Point. “The technical assistance has been transformative. We are certainly not the same, and we are committed to passing on the knowledge and skills we’ve gained, in the true spirit of mentorship. We look forward to similar initiatives in the future – for the good of our region and humanity at large.”
Key achievements of the initiative include four regional dialogues that brought together NGCCFPs, NDC focal points, civil society, and experts to co-develop regional strategies for gender mainstreaming. A month-long online training course equipped over 60 participants with knowledge on UNFCCC processes, gender mandates, negotiation tactics, and practical integration of gender in climate policy.
The project also enabled direct participation of NGCCFPs at key global meetings such as UN Climate Change global climate conferences, including COP 28, held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Their participation was deemed an asset within the concerned delegations at the conference.
A deeper social transformation driven by climate policy
The project’s central output, the technical guide, draws from over 20 global resources and offers clear, practical steps to integrate gender across all stages of NDC and LT-LEDs development: from visioning and stakeholder engagement to implementation and monitoring. More than a procedural manual, the guide promotes a gender-transformative approach that challenges systemic inequalities and reimagines power structures through climate action. It urges planners to ask – not just how women and other usually marginalized groups are affected by climate change, but how climate policy can drive deeper social transformation.
The guide’s development was rooted in regional consultation. A high-level capacity-building workshop in Windhoek, Namibia, co-hosted by the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism and the Environmental Investment Fund with UN Women, helped shape the guide’s structure. Input from NDC Focal Points, NGCCFPs, sectoral experts, and civil society ensured its content reflects practical realities and regional priorities.
As countries prepare their next generation of NDCs and LT-LEDs, the guide is a critical tool to ensure gender equality is not just considered but embedded and mainstreamed. It reinforces the role of gender focal points as key champions working alongside climate and sectoral experts for an equitable, inclusive, and transformative climate action.
This initiative demonstrates how gender considerations can be mainstreamed from the ground up and offers a pathway for countries to ensure their climate action leaves no one behind.
The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has expressed interest in partnering with the Federal Government of Nigeria to address critical infrastructure gaps in the power sector, with ready funds to support the country’s energy development as part of a new Country Engagement Framework.
Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, with IsDB officials
Officials from the Jeddah-based financial institution, led by Alagi Gaye, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, in Abuja on Tuesday, July 22, 2025.
During the meeting, Chief Adelabu emphasised the need for substantial investment to ensure stable, efficient, and affordable electricity for Nigerians. He noted that improving power supply remains a top priority for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, citing the Electricity Act of 2023 as a key step toward liberalizing the sector.
Gaye revealed that the IsDB has an active portfolio of nearly $2 billion across various sectors in Nigeria, including energy, transport, agriculture, and education, but stressed the bank’s desire to deepen its involvement in power infrastructure.
Gaye explained that the bank is developing its first-ever Country Engagement Framework for Nigeria since the nation joined the IsDB in 2005. Unlike its previous project-based approach, the bank now seeks programme-based interventions that align with Nigeria’s sectoral policies, regulations, and challenges. He acknowledged the country’s significant electricity access gap and affirmed the IsDB’s commitment to incentivising private-sector investment in the sector.
In response, Adelabu highlighted ongoing reforms, including the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI) – a $2.3 billion agreement with Germany’s Siemens Energy to modernise Nigeria’s aging power grid. He noted that the pilot phase, involving the installation of 10 power transformers and 10 mobile substations, has already improved grid stability, with plans for further expansion over the next few years.
The government is also working on a “Super Grid” project to tackle redundancy and has secured support from the World Bank and African Development Bank (AfDB) for transmission upgrades.
The Minister also addressed challenges in the distribution segment, where inefficiencies persist despite privatisation. The government retains a 40 percent stake in Distribution Companies (DisCos) and is exploring partnerships to improve their performance. A major concern is the metering gap, with only six million meters deployed out of 13 million registered consumers. To address this, the government launched the Presidential Metering Initiative (PMI), which aims to import two million meters annually over five years.
Adelabu further discussed Nigeria’s “Mission 300” programme, which promotes renewable energy solutions for rural electrification.
“Given the difficulty of extending the national grid to remote areas, the government is deploying solar home systems and mini-grids to power households, schools, and healthcare facilities while supporting agricultural activities,” he said.
While acknowledging global climate concerns, the Minister emphasised that Africa’s minimal carbon footprint means Nigeria’s renewable energy push is driven more by necessity than emission targets.
Concluding the meeting, the Minister welcomed IsDB’s support and urged the bank to review feasibility studies for proposed projects. He expressed confidence in the partnership, citing the bank’s credibility as a financial institution. The discussions underscored the potential for collaboration in transforming Nigeria’s power sector and ensuring sustainable energy access for citizens.
In its drive towards ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment in Nigeria through effective waste management, the Sustainable Research and Action for Environmental Development (SRADev Nigeria) has inducted young Nigerians of school age as zero waste marshals so as to further strengthen waste management action plan in the country.
Presentation of wastebins by SRADev to Lagos schools
During the Zero Waste Project Launch at Ajao Junior High School, Ajao Estate in Anthony Village in Lagos, Dr. Leslei Adogame, the Executive Director of SRADev Nigeria, noted that the essence of the programme is to ensure effective waste management by adopting zero waste approach.
He said: “We realise that in Nigeria we needed to support the government, particularly the Lagos State Government is doing wonderfully well in the area of solid waste management, but they need some support, if we can entrench zero waste concept, that will go well. So, what we did was the implementation of a project where we identified residential estates that can imbibe the concept of zero waste. Today, we also involved Eko Akete High School, Antony High School and Ajao Estate High School.
“We took them through a six-month intensive training and selected students on what zero waste is all about, develop a model a global model you know for zero waste. We took them through, and they all learned.
“So, today, was just the launching to formally unveil them as zero waste marshals. We are going to be scaling up to other schools in Lagos and across the country very soon,” he stated.
In his remark, Dr. Essien Nsuabia, the Assistant General Manager, Waste Management Development of Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), pointed out that Nigerians must adopt principles of zero waste management namely reduce, reuse, recycle and recover.
According to him, there is huge importance of zero waste in municipal waste management such as it reduces waste being sent to landfills, it conserves natural resources as well as saving resources such as energy, water and land.
For more desired results to be achieved, Dr. Nsuabia noted that there is need to get more people involved, implement programmes to reduce waste generation, such as reducing single-use plastics and promoting sustainable consumption, increase recycling rates through education, outreach, and infrastructure development and promote composting of organic waste to reduce waste sent to landfills and create nutrient-rich soil amendments.
In her submission, Dr. Idowu Olufunke Oyetola, Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary Education District III, noted that the Zero Waste Project School Launch is an exemplary initiative aimed at ensuring waste are being converted into wealth aside the economic benefits, talking about having a cleaner, safer and healthier environment. “It is more encouraging when we have our young learners getting into this initiative. They can now cascade this information at the school level, at home and at different spaces they occupy So, it is highly commendable.”
Dr. Oyetola, represented by Mr. Iyun Abiodun Oladunjoye, Principal, Eko-Akete Senior Grammar School, opined that the project is the right call in the right direction, saying: “I know this is a pilot scheme, I believe it will cut across all other districts in a very short distance from now So, eventually Lagos State society as a whole will be fully saturated with the new global trend of converting waste to wealth.”
Talking about the overview of the project’s objectives and benefits, Victor Fabunmi, SRADeV’s Project/Programmes Manager, noted that the project trained a sum 50 students on the concept of zero waste and demonstration of waste management through a zero waste approach with provision of colour coded bins to the schools and engagement of waste pickers and also evaluates the students on the lessons learned on zero waste and identifying waste marshals.
Fabunmi highlighted the essence of waste segregation which informed different colours for the waste bins provided for the schools. According to him, the Green Bin is for organic waste -including food waste and vegetable residues, Blue or Yellow Bin is for recyclables like Bottles – glass/PET/HDPE, pure water sachet, food packs, metal scraps, electronic waste, Tetra pad – juice and yogurt packs, paper cartoon while the Red bin is meant for non-recyclables and residues Sachet/wrappers, diapers, sanitary pads, textile waste.
Highpoint of the event is the presentation of wastebins to Anthony Senior High School, Ajao Estate Junior High School as well as Eko- Akete Junior and Senior High Schools.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has delivered an historic advisory opinion which, for the first time, authoritatively sets out States’ legal duties in relation to climate change. It situates the opinion against the backdrop of five decades of treaty‑making and steadily worsening scientific findings on climate change.
ICJ Courtroom
The Court confirms that climate change is “a quintessentially universal risk” and holds that every State is bound – by treaty and by customary international law – to act with stringent due diligence to prevent significant harm to the climate system and to cooperate internationally to that end. By explicitly recognising the acute vulnerability of small island developing States, the Court validates the core concerns that drove Vanuatu’s campaign for the opinion.
Key legal duties clarified
The Court characterises anthropogenic greenhouse‑gas emissions as conduct capable of engaging both treaty and customary obligations. It restates the prevention principle and the duty to co‑operate as rules of customary law and emphasises that compliance must be assessed through the prism of the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities (CBDR‑RC). The latter is described as an “interpretive lens” for all sources, not merely for the climate treaties.
For prevention, the Court sets a “stringent” due diligence standard that obliges States to adopt “all appropriate measures”, including rapid, deep and sustained domestic mitigation, supported by legislation, enforcement and continuous scientific review. The duty to cooperate is likewise framed as a continuing, good‑faith obligation that requires collective elaboration and periodic strengthening of rules, standards and scientific programmes.
The opinion integrates international human rights law, identifying the rights to life, health, an adequate standard of living, and the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment as directly threatened by climate change; it affirms that environmental protection is a pre‑condition for their enjoyment. The Court also affirms the International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea (ITLOS)’s recent finding that anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions constitute “pollution of the marine environment” under UNCLOS, thereby triggering Part XII obligations—also to be fulfilled with a stringent due‑diligence standard.
Legal consequences for breaches
Where a State’s acts or omissions cause significant climate harm it incurs the full range of consequences prescribed by the law of State responsibility. These include: (a) a duty of performance (to comply with primary obligations); (b) cessation and guarantees of non‑repetition; and (c) an obligation to make full reparation, which may take the form of restitution, compensation or satisfaction. The Court emphasises that each injured State may invoke responsibility against every wrongful emitter and that obligations toward a stable climate are erga omnes: all States have a legal interest in their observance.
Implications for Vanuatu and the Pacific
The opinion is a decisive legal vindication of Vanuatu’s leadership. It equips the Government with an authoritative statement that legally binding climate duties have existed for decades, despite historical polluters’ disregard for such duties; that the Paris “loss and damage” finance agenda rests on these hard legal duties, including the duty to make reparations for injury resulting from wrongful acts; and that the continued expansion of fossil‑fuel production is incompatible with States’ obligations of prevention and cessation.
Vanuatu may rely on the opinion to press for ambitious NDC revisions at COP 30, to galvanise donor support for the Loss and Damage Fund, and to strengthen its position in any future negotiations on climate justice matters. The finding that responsibility is engaged for cumulative emissions also paves the way for potential litigation against States and possibly corporate actors who have, through their acts and omissions, caused climate harm.
Next steps
Vanuatu has already started work to integrate the opinion into its climate‑diplomacy toolbox. Immediate next steps include: (1) tabling a resolution in New York that welcomes the opinion and actions its findings; (2) urging developed partners to align bilateral and multilateral climate finance flows with the Court’s guidance; (3) using the opinion to underpin stronger regional positions; and (4) technical work to map the full spectrum of legal implications. In parallel, domestic implementation will demonstrate Vanuatu’s continued good faith commitment to the very obligations it asked the Court to clarify.
Conclusion
The political language of climate ambition can no longer be detached from enforceable legal duties. For Vanuatu, the opinion is both shield and sword: a shield affirming its right to survival and a sword compelling the world’s major emitters to act in line with science and justice. Disseminating this message widely will reinforce global momentum towards the rapid, just and equitable transition the Court deems a matter of legal obligation.
“Music for Wildlife”, a groundbreaking concert series that merges music and wildlife conservation, has launched on Trace Global Network TV channels and streaming platforms. This initiative brings together Africa’s top musical talent to raise awareness of and support for wildlife conservation in Africa.
Nanette (Music for Wildlife)
Produced by Wild Africa, a conservation NGO dedicated to protecting Africa’s wildlife and wild spaces, in collaboration with OAS1SONE, a trailblazing platform for music and immersive experiences, Music for Wildlife features over 150 musicians, united by one urgent message: the need to protect Africa’s iconic wildlife and wild spaces now.
The series is supported by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), a global non-profit long active throughout Africa, helping animals and people thrive together.
“African artists are very powerful voices and can make the difference to raise awareness for better wildlife protection in Africa. Trace is proud to open its global network to host the Music for Wildlife shows that perfectly align with our values and initiatives,” says Olivier Laouchez, Co-founder and Executive Chairman of the Trace Group.
Africa, home to a quarter of the world’s biodiversity, faces enormous challenges, including poaching, habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, the illegal wildlife trade and climate change, all contributing to a drastic decline in wildlife populations. The WWF’s 2024 Living Planet Index reports that our wildlife populations have plunged by 76% over the last 50 years.
But there is hope. People are starting to care more deeply about the world around them – wanting to make a difference, to be heard. With this series, a powerful celebration of culture and conservation, we aim to reach over 350 million viewers in 190 countries and expose them to Africa’s amazing music and wildlife.
“We Nigerians love our music and culture, but where is the love for our wildlife? Because of habitat loss, poaching, deforestation and the illegal bushmeat trade, we risk losing them forever,” said CKay from Nigeria who is one of the artists featured in the series. “Let’s give our wildlife some space and some love.”
Airing weekly from July 2025 audiences will meet some of Africa’s finest musicians, including chart-topping stars such as CKay, Focalistic, Musa Keys, Kamo Mphela, Vinka, Feli Nandi, Shekhinah, Azawi, Joyous Celebration, and Zakes Bantwini. Each 24-minute concert will feature an engaging blend of recorded studio sessions, and captivating wildlife conservation content.
Peter Knights OBE, Wild Africa CEO, said, “Trace appeals to the youth, which is the future of Africa, and their passion will be vital for Africa to conserve the world’s most incredible wildlife and the natural foundation on which human life depends.”
From Cape Town to Lagos, Harare to Windhoek, artists are donating their talent and time to advocate against the threats facing wildlife. Through powerful performances and bold messages, these musicians are inspiring their fans to stand with them, take action, and reconnect with the wild spaces in our national parks.
“Africans should care about protecting wildlife. Wildlife and national parks create a lot of jobs in Africa, such as attracting tourists from across the world. Let’s use music and arts, to protect our amazing wildlife,” said South Africa’s Focalistic, one of the early pioneers of Amapiano, and a multi-award-winning rapper, singer-songwriter, and global superstar.
“Trace, a global powerhouse in African music and media, unites with top African artists and one of the world’s leading conservation organizations in a groundbreaking partnership to amplify the call for wildlife protection. This collaboration not only drives global awareness for Africa’s wildlife but also catapults African music and talent to millions worldwide,” said Jandre Louw, Founder and CEO of OAS1SONE.
According to IFAW President and CEO, Azzedine Downes, “IFAW has long embraced music and the arts as a way to celebrate wildlife and acknowledge the critical importance of biodiversity across the globe. In recognising its existence, we must also recognise its inherent vulnerability. We are immensely proud to work alongside partners as part of the ‘Music for Wildlife’ series, as we strive to achieve a world where both animals and people thrive together.”
In what looks like a rare demonstration of global alignment, the European Union and China on Thursday, July 24, 2025, issued a joint statement reaffirming their commitment to climate cooperation, green trade, and the Paris Agreement. Amid rising geopolitical tensions, the statement positions climate action as a crucial area of continued collaboration between two of the world’s largest economies.
Chinese President Xi Jinping shakes hands with European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China July 24, 2025. Photo credit: China Daily via REUTERS
The announcement followed a high-level visit to Beijing by European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, and European Council President, António Costa, who met with Chinese President, Xi Jinping, and other senior officials on Thursday. As the United States steps back from international climate diplomacy, the EU–China statement signals a clear intent to reinforce global ambition and multilateral cooperation.
Notably, the statement comes just one day after the International Court of Justice handed down a landmark ruling reinforcing states’ legal obligations to protect people from the impacts of climate change.
Key elements of the EU-China joint statement include:
The EU and China call for “policy continuity and stability” among major economies and a clear “step up” in efforts to address climate change, signaling the need for more ambitious 2035 NDCs. Both parties confirm their intent to submit updated 2035 NDCs (national climate plans) before COP30, covering all sectors and greenhouse gases, aligned with the 1.5°C goal.
Reaffirming the UNFCCC and Paris Agreement as the cornerstone of international climate cooperation.
Emphasising that climate collaboration holds “great and special significance” for upholding multilateralism and global climate governance.
Noting a “solid foundation and broad space” for deepening green cooperation, even amid rising trade tensions. The EU and China commit to enhanced bilateral cooperation in areas such as the energy transition and green economy.
In a reaction, Andreas Sieber, Associate Director of Policy and Campaigns at 350.org, says: “This joint statement offers a timely stabilising signal in an increasingly fragmented geopolitical landscape and the United States’ withdrawal from climate diplomacy. While this statement reflects a welcome willingness for cooperation, real and ambitious action must follow. Current ambition remains far too low. With COP30 fast approaching, the EU and China must go beyond committing to update their climate targets. Drawing the line for global heating at 1.5°C will require urgent, credible action, not just diplomatic symbolism.”
On Wednesday, July 23, 2025, the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the world’s highest court, issued its long-awaited Advisory Opinion on states’ legal obligations in the face of climate change, offering unprecedented legal clarity on how existing international norms apply to address the climate crisis, with significant implications for ongoing and future fossil fuel production.
International Court of Justice
The landmark ruling affirms that climate action is not optional: it is a binding legal duty grounded in existing treaty regimes and customary law, including human rights and environmental law. The Court acknowledged states have an obligation to prevent environmental harm, protect present and future generations from the escalating impacts of the climate crisis and to cooperate internationally. In a significant outcome, the Court found that fossil fuel production, licensing and subsidies “may constitute an internationally wrongful act”.
Importantly, the Court showed a pathway toward a solution – that “Co-operation between States is the very foundation of meaningful international efforts with respect to climate change” and that “treaties and their coordinated forms of implementation are a principal expression” of this cooperation. This has undoubtedly been the case in recent major international legal efforts, spearheaded by small groups of nation-states, such as the 17 nations participating in the development of a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, and the core group of countries who brought these questions before the International Court of Justice on Wednesday.
Ralph Regenvanu, Minister for Climate Change, Energy, Meteorology, Geohazards, Environment and Disaster Management for the Republic of Vanuatu, said: “This initiative was part of efforts to get the action quicker because we have been in the UNFCCC process for 30 years – we are pulling all international levers possible. We were part of the group that went to ITLOS and got the advisory opinion. We made a submission as part of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and are pushing for the crime of ecocide to be recognised by the ICC. We are also part of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, where we’re pushing to get more countries on board and trying everything at the international level to speed up action. Today has been a concrete contribution to that.”
Vishal Prashad, Director, Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change (PISFCC), said: “By affirming the science, the ICJ has mandated countries to urgently phase out fossil fuels because they are no longer tenable. For Small Island States, communities in the Pacific, young people and future generations, this opinion is a lifeline and an opportunity to protect what we hold dear and love. I am convinced now that there is hope and that we can return to our communities saying the same. Today is historic for climate justice and we are one step closer to realising this.”
The opinion reinforces what climate vulnerable nations and frontline communities have long demanded: that wealthy, high-emitting states must align with international law by rapidly reducing emissions, ending fossil fuel expansion, and supporting those harmed by the crisis through finance, adaptation, and remedy.
The Court left no legal shelter for business-as-usual. It made clear that the status quo is incompatible with states’ legal obligations under international law – a finding that will inform climate litigation and advocacy for years to come.
Kumi Naidoo, President, Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, said: “This opinion should serve as a clarion call to governments and institutions stalling the fossil fuel phaseout. The ICJ has affirmed what we have long known – that states have a legal duty to protect people and the planet from the impacts of the climate crisis, including taking appropriate action to prevent harm from fossil fuels. This reinforces the urgent need for a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, which offers a bold, clear path to turn these obligations into concrete, just action. We applaud the Pacific states that made the voices of frontline communities and their calls for climate justice heard on the global stage and catalysed this historic ruling.”
The court emphasised that existing legal frameworks set forth binding obligations upon all States to act on climate change, highlighting their duty to cooperate in good faith to find solutions. The ICJ’s decision signals that climate obligations extend beyond existing climate treaties and that ambition is not a matter of voluntary pledges. They are rooted in binding legal rules and principles, including the right to life, health, culture, and a healthy environment.
This outcome is only the beginning. Like past landmark ITLOS and Inter-American Court opinions, this ruling will shape a new era of climate justice. Now, it is up to communities and governments to bring it to life.
The long awaited ICJ Advisory opinion on states obligation on Climate Change is finally here! It says that government actions driving climate change are illegal, and states are legally bound to cut their emissions and compensate vulnerable nations for the harm they have caused. This implies that countries need to get serious about tackling climate change as soon as possible. This is huge. The ICJ is basically saying states must work together to cut emissions, honour global climate agreements, and protect vulnerable communities and ecosystems. The Court even declared that having a “clean, healthy, and sustainable environment” is a fundamental human right.
Augustine B Njamnshi
If countries fail to take action to protect the planet, it could constitute a violation of international law. Judge Yuji Iwasawa emphasised that “States must cooperate to achieve concrete emission reduction targets.” If countries fail to comply with the stringent obligations outlined in climate treaties, that constitutes a breach of international law. The Court also made it clear that countries are responsible for the actions of companies under their jurisdiction or control, which means they need to rein in fossil fuel production.
Background To the Advisory Opinion
This initiative’s roots go back to a 2019 grassroots movement spearheaded by Pacific Island youth – the Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change (PISFCC). These young leaders, who are on the frontlines of the climate crisis, showed determination and vision. In March 2019, they took action, writing to all Pacific governments to seek support for their proposal for an ICJ advisory opinion. Their efforts paid off, gaining backing from regional leaders and, crucially, Vanuatu’s Foreign Minister who with others, would champion the course to secure the UNGA resolution for this.
In 2023, the UN General Assembly, under Article 96 of the Charter of the United Nations, decided to request the International Court of Justice, pursuant to Article 65 of the Statute of the Court, to render an advisory opinion on the following question:
“Having particular regard to the Charter of the United Nations, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Paris Agreement, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, the duty of due diligence, the rights recognized in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the principle of prevention of significant harm to the environment and the duty to protect and preserve the marine environment,
(a) What are the obligations of States under international law to ensure the protection of the climate system and other parts of the environment from anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse gases for States and for present and future generations?
(b) What are the legal consequences under these obligations for States where they, by their acts and omissions, have caused significant harm to the climate system and other parts of the environment, with respect to:
(i) States, including, in particular, Small Island Developing States, which due to their geographical circumstances and level of development, are injured or specially affected by or are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change?
(ii) Peoples and individuals of the present and future generations affected by the adverse effects of climate change?”
The decision to request this Advisory Opinion was taken as the UNGA noted with utmost concern the scientific consensus, expressed, inter alia, in the reports of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, including that anthropogenic emissions of greenhouses gases are unequivocally the dominant cause of the global warming observed since the mid-20th century, that human-induced climate change, including more frequent and intense extreme events, has caused widespread adverse impacts and related losses and damages to nature and people, beyond natural climate variability, and that across sectors and regions the most vulnerable people and systems are observed to be disproportionately affected.
As the opinion was awaited UNGA continued emphasising the urgency of scaling up action and support, including finance, capacity-building and technology transfer, to enhance adaptive capacity and to implement collaborative approaches for effectively responding to the adverse effects of climate change, as well as for averting, minimizing and addressing loss and damage associated with those effects in developing countries that are particularly vulnerable to these effects.
Provision of climate finance has always been an emotive issue that has perpetually widened the North-South divide over who has the obligation to provide climate finance and on what terms. In recent years, this scenario has characterised climate negotiations, leaving developing countries with the impression that developed countries keep making climate finance discussions a “red flag” as though developing countries are just begging or are simply money minded. This could even be seen during this ICJ process when many developed country states raised the lex specialis argument, which suggests that the specific treaty regimes related to climate change – such as the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement – should be considered as the primary or only source of law for determining states’ obligations in relation to climate change.
This is threat to climate justice and now that this lex specialis argument was rejected by the Court and with the unequivocal Advisory Opinion of the ICJ stating that states are legally bound to cut their emissions and compensate vulnerable nations for the harm they have caused, there is a need to look at Climate Change and Climate Finance (especially adaptation finance) negotiations from a Transitional Justice perspective.
The Urgent Need for A Transitional Justice Approach to Climate (Adaptation) Finance
Historical Responsibility: Developed countries have contributed significantly more to greenhouse gas emissions historically. A transitional justice approach acknowledges this responsibility and aims to correct historical injustices by ensuring these countries contribute more to climate finance. It is true, we all have to “clean the climate mess,” but in doing so, we should not forget who created the mess and continued to do so, who benefited from the mess and continued to do so, who can stop the mess and has the capacity to do so.
This is what the Principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibility according to Respective Capabilities (CBDR), which is a cornerstone of the Framework Convention on Climate Change, is all about. Again, remember, the impacts of climate change are already there and are increasing daily. The Paris agreement is very clear about who should provide the money, for whom and for what purposes. Article 9, paragraphs 1 and 2 state that:
1) Developed country Parties shall provide financial resources to assist developing country Parties for both mitigation and adaptation in continuation of their existing obligations under the Convention.
2) Other Parties are encouraged to provide or continue to provide such support voluntarily.
If everyone must put their hands on deck to stop and clean the climate mess, money is needed, and therefore, developed countries are obliged to provide the money for developing countries to do so. Other parties (non-developed countries) are encouraged (not obliged) to provide or (for those who have already been doing so) continue to provide such support voluntarily.
Vulnerable Populations and Equitable Distribution: Climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable populations in developing countries, who often lack the resources to adapt. Transitional justice ensures that these communities receive the necessary support to cope with climate impacts. The provision of climate Finance should be anchored on the felt needs (not quick fixing) of developing countries. Transitional justice promotes the equitable distribution of climate finance, ensuring that funds are allocated based on need and vulnerability rather than political or economic influence.
For this reason Article 9.3 states that 🙁As part of a global effort, developed country Parties should continue to take the lead in mobilising climate finance from a wide variety of sources, instruments and channels, noting the significant role of public funds, through a variety of actions, including supporting country-driven strategies, and taking into account the needs and priorities of developing country Parties. Such mobilisation of climate finance should represent a progression beyond previous efforts.
What, therefore, are the felt needs and priorities of developing countries? In general, the priority needs of developing countries, especially Africa, are adapting to the present and future impacts of climate change, poverty eradication, sustainable development, and finally mitigation. It means developed countries should provide money mostly in the form of grants to help them cope with the impacts of climate change that they never caused in the first place.
Grants, not loans, because “you cannot set fire on someone’s house and sell them the fire extinguisher or, worse still, loan them money to rebuild it.” Article 9.4 provides that: “The provision of scaled-up financial resources should aim to achieve a balance between adaptation and mitigation, taking into account country-driven strategies, and the priorities and needs of developing country Parties, especially those that are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change and have significant capacity constraints, such as the least developed countries and small island developing States, considering the need for public and grant-based resources for adaptation.”
Reparations and Redress: By framing climate finance through a transitional justice lens, there is a focus on reparations and redress for communities that have suffered losses and damages due to climate change, promoting healing and reconciliation. The past decades have shown us that “political feel-good announcements” that developed countries make on the stage each time we have a big meeting have not helped. We have heard this so many times! We have had experiences where developed countries turn around and baptize anything as climate finance.
Attempts to count activities such as efforts to stop illegal immigration from Africa to Europe and space research as climate finance are just a few of them. Predictability, therefore, remains key, and for that reason, the 5th paragraph of Article 9 provides that “Developed country Parties shall biennially communicate indicative quantitative and qualitative information related to paragraphs 1 and 3 of this Article, as applicable, including, as available, projected levels of public financial resources to be provided to developing country Parties. Other Parties providing resources are encouraged to communicate biennially such information on a voluntary basis.”
Participation, Inclusion and Trust Building: A transitional justice approach ensures that affected communities are actively involved in climate finance decision-making processes, promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. Moreover, incorporating principles of transitional justice can build trust between developed and developing countries, fostering better cooperation and more effective climate action.
In providing this financial support to developing countries, developed countries have to show utmost transparency by providing timely and useful information about it. Article 9.7 provides thus: “Developed country Parties shall provide transparent and consistent information on support for developing country Parties provided and mobilised through public interventions biennially in accordance with the modalities, procedures and guidelines to be adopted by the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to this Agreement, at its first session, as stipulated in Article 13, paragraph 13. Other Parties are encouraged to do so.”
Conclusion: The ICJ’s Advisory Opinion on climate change presents an opportunity to re-think climate adaptation finance negotiations because it clarifies states’ obligations under international law and strengthens the legal basis for climate action, potentially leading to increased financial support for vulnerable nations. By clarifying these obligations, the opinion will help unlock stalled negotiations, strengthen demands for climate finance, and reinforce the need for action rooted in science. By rejecting the lex specialis argument, the ICJ affirms that obligations related to climate change extend beyond the UNFCCC and Paris Agreement, applying even to states not party to those treaties.
A Transitional Justice approach in climate adaptation finance negotiations will therefore help in addressing past injustices and ensuring fair treatment of all parties lays a foundation for long-term sustainability and resilience, creating a more just and equitable global response to climate change. Overall, integrating transitional justice into climate finance negotiations can help rectify historical wrongs, ensure fair distribution of resources, and support vulnerable populations in adapting to and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
By Augustine B Njamnshi, lawyer, Co-Founder and Chair of Political and Technical Affairs of the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA). He is also the Executive Director of the African Coalition for Sustainable Energy and Access(ACSEA)
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has reiterated his unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State
Sanwo-Olu said this during a special tree planting exercise organised by the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) in celebration of his 60th birthday on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in Lagos.
The event took place at the setback along the Cargo Terminal, International Airport Road, Ikeja.
The governor was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Dr Tajudeen Gaji.
He emphasised that tree planting was a simple, yet powerful action to combat climate change, improve air quality, and create a healthier environment for future generations.
He described the exercise, not just as a celebration, but also a reaffirmation of collective commitment to sustainable environmental protection and the future of Lagos State.
“As your governor, I remain dedicated to advancing initiatives that safeguard our environment and combat climate change, from urban greening programmes to renewable energy and climate adaptation projects,” he stated.
Sanwo-Olu added that each tree planted would help cool the city, improve air quality, and reduce the risk of flooding.
He described the gesture as a gift to future generations.
The governor praised the LJLA fellows for their leadership and dedication, likening the trees to seeds of leadership that would grow strong and enduring as living monuments to Lagos’s future.
He also highlighted the significance of the academy as a symbol of leaders, who valued sustainability and impact beyond economic growth.
“The academy, named after the late Alhaji Lateef Jakande, embodies vision, service, and foresight,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu called on Lagosians to join the movement to plant and nurture trees as a collective contribution toward a sustainable future.
Global climate justice group, 350.org, has condemned reports that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is preparing to repeal its foundational scientific finding that greenhouse gas emissions endanger human life.
Lee Zeldin, Administrator, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
According to a New York Times article published July 22, 2025, the EPA is drafting a ruling that is set to eliminate the 2009 bedrock scientific finding, known as the “endangerment finding.” The finding established that greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane pose a direct threat to public health and the environment and underpins much of the federal government’s authority to regulate emissions and address the climate crisis.
On Friday, July 18, the EPA had already announced plans to dismantle its scientific research arm and lay off hundreds of staff. Now, as climate advocates are pointing out, the agency is targeting the science itself.
Anne Jellema, Executive Director of 350.org, says: “This administration is making a mockery of the institutions set up to protect us all. It’s one thing to wilfully ignore the science in favour of profit, but to attempt to cancel it altogether beggars belief. Canceling the endangerment finding would declare open season on all of humanity, and cause irreversible harm to the entire planet, not just within the boundaries of the United States.”
For decades now, scientists have agreed, with a greater than 99% consensus, on climate change being caused by human beings. Yesterday, in an address titled ‘The Moment of Opportunity’, the United Nations Secretary General emphasised that “the climate crisis is laying waste to lives and livelihoods, and the 1.5-degree limit is in unprecedented peril. To keep it within reach, we must drastically speed up the reduction of emissions – and the reach of the clean energy transition.”
In Washington this week, a protest was brought to the steps of the White House with 27 colourful trunks representing the children whose lives were tragically lost to the floods in Texas that claimed at least 135. Their families brought this protest to the White House to condemn a broader failure to address the climate crisis and hold the fossil fuel industry accountable. They demanded immediate policy changes, full funding for weather and disaster response agencies, and a rapid transition away from coal and oil.
“We are already bearing witness to the impacts of the chaotic policy changes being pushed through by this administration. These have cost us lives and will continue to do so long into the future. We will not sit back and let this administration unravel the protections we have fought so long and hard for. We are standing by – with the full force of the global climate movement behind us – to denounce this proposal as soon as it is published for public notice and comment.” concluded Anne Jellema.
